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City Guide
Monday, April 19, 2021

Moving to Outer Banks, NC- Your EZ Guide to the Best Outer Banks Towns

 

Outer Banks Beach and Beach House

The quiet of the rustling sea oats. Seafoam tickling your toes. Miles of nature, not miles of people. For the right person, life in the Outer Banks is a breath of fresh air. These North Carolina islands attract people from across the globe. Their unique charm and residential hospitality are just part of the appeal. Its coastal cities like Nags Head and Corolla offer distinct experiences and different advantages depending on what you’re looking for.

Life here may be a world away from the mainland but that doesn’t mean life here is boring. The sea and its recreational activities are right out your door. There’s always something happening in the Outer Banks. Look forward to festivals with local art, music, food, and craft beer the whole year. Plus, there are marathons on the beach, surfing competitions, and much more.

If all this sounds great, you’re probably on the way to packing your bags. Learn what you need to know before moving to Outer Banks, NC, and check out the best Outer Banks towns.  

About the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks (OBX) are a chain of barrier islands stretching for 200 miles off the coast of Virginia and North Carolina. For simplicity, the main ones are Pea Island, Ocracoke Island, Hatteras Island, and Roanoke Island, but there are others.

The narrow islands reach three miles at their widest point, shrinking to 150 yards. Because reefs do not anchor them, the spits of sand are more vulnerable to coastal erosion and significant storms. The shifting sands have joined or split islands at various times. Some communities are only accessible with four-wheel-drive vehicles.

The OBX protects half the North Carolina coastline, shielding bays and sounds from the direct impacts of Atlantic tides and storms. The seashore’s surrounding ecosystem holds essential biodiversity zones, including shrubland and beach grasses that help shelter the North Carolina and southeastern Virginia coasts. Grasses try to hold the ever-shifting land and protect the pristine beaches.

The northern beaches fall into Currituck County, while the middle and southern beaches are in Dare County.

People know the OBX for its historic lighthouses and for being the site of the first flight. Tourists visit places like the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the islands’ vast expanse of open beachfront.

A visit to the Outer Banks is worth more than a day trip. Part of that is the time invested in simply getting there. Only three bridges connect the islands to the mainland, with ferries filling in the gaps at different points. Still, the shortest crossing time is one hour. Virginia Beach to Kill Devil Hills is about 90 miles, or one hour and 40 minutes of driving.

Cost of Living and Population Growth

According to the latest U.S. Census, over 58,000 people call the OBX home. While you can relocate to plenty of places in this vast expanse of islands, those who want to live in a beach community would best consider the homes for sale in Nags Head, Southern Shores, and Kill Devil Hills.. These popular towns in the Outer Banks blend its seaside charms with easier access to attractions and shopping options. 

However, a significant drawback to living in a vacation paradise, and near the more popualted towns around the Outer Banks, is the high price of the houses. If you’re wondering how affordable living in the Outer Banks is, the table shows the indexed expenses you can expect using Dare County figures. It also compares island living to North Carolina’s average and the national average.

COST OF LIVING        

Outer Banks         

North Carolina     

USA

Overall

108.4%

91%

100%

Grocery

100.6%

96.5%

100%

Health

130.1%

107.5%

100%

Housing

135.7%

83.1%

100%

Median Home Cost

$544,400

$289,300

$338,100

Utilities

98.1%

99.2%

100%

Transportation

68.8%

83.9%

100%

Miscellaneous

112.8%

89.2%

100%

Dare County’s overall cost of living is 8% higher than the national average. Housing is a big part of that, but you also see costs are higher for health care and miscellaneous expenses like child care or dining out. You’ll also want to consider the elevated home and flood insurance prices.

Job Market

The Outer Banks’ popularity as a tourist destination supports seasonal work. After all, around five million people visit the unspoiled beaches every year. That far exceeds the 58,000 people who live here. People looking for year-round work will find employment in real estate, maritime work, banking, vacation home management, and construction industries. Those working in specialized fields in the Outer Banks will find a growing need for skilled professionals, particularly in medical care. 

Most work opportunities revolve around restaurants, retail, and construction. All rely on people who come and go during the busy summertime season. The downside is many restaurants and shops close during the off-season. 

Using Nags Head as an example of the jobs available in the Outer Banks, the top employers are The Fresh Market, Vidant Health, and The Outer Banks Hospital. The most popular occupations are Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Registered Nurse (RN), and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Education: Schools and Colleges

Outer Banks has an excellent school system, with Dare County typically ranked in the top 10 counties in North Carolina. You can rest easy knowing that schools constantly raise money to contribute to better facilities and equipment inside their schools. The PTAs within the schools are also highly active. Furthermore, because of the cultural diversity in the area due to travelers and people moving in, there is a great atmosphere of acceptance and tolerance that fosters an excellent learning environment for children and youth. 

Some notable schools in the Outer Banks area include: 

  • College of the Albemarle: This great community college hires teaching professionals with outstanding credentials for two-year degrees and career training.
  • Elizabeth City State University: This school provides several four-year learning experiences for students. 

Climate

The best time to go to the Outer Banks is during March and May or between September and November. That’s when you get the moderate temperatures that make being outside pleasant. However, locals and most visitors prefer the summer months because of the warm weather. This is a beach vacation destination, after all. The year-round average high is in the upper 70Fs and an average of lows in the 50Fs. If you opt to live here in the winter months, temperatures can be as low as 30F. 

The downside to living in the OBX is the unpredictable weather. You’ll experience it all on the Outer Banks — from strong storm winds to bright and sunny days, the weather constantly changes. While OBX may enjoy up to 200 days of sun every year, it can shift at any second. This is especially true during hurricane season. A storm doesn’t have to make landfall to impact the string of barrier islands; high waves can cause coastal erosion.

Traffic

The heaviest traffic in the Outer Banks usually happens between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with people coming off the mainland, but this can vary by an hour. Summertime also has more traffic because of all the visitors, especially in the best Outer Banks towns. The narrow islands are linked by one long beach road, Highway 12. That means there’s one way in and out. And, the highway has one travel lane in each direction, with a few exceptions in the busier communities.

However, leaving early to get where you need to go will usually save you from the pain of sitting in traffic. Most of the traffic during visitor turnover days occurs on the Wright Memorial Bridge and Dare Memorial Bridge, the main route coming into Kitty Hawk. Ocracoke Island is accessible only by ferry.

While your GPS may say that looking for an alternative route could take longer, doing this will save you from a long wait, especially if you’re coming from Kitty Hawk south. While choosing to go on Highway 64 instead of Highway 158 can add miles to your journey, you can be sure it will keep you moving at a steady pace, and you’ll be at your destination in no time. 

Public Transportation

Unfortunately, because the various towns and places of interest are spread across islands, there are only three ways to get around: car, ferry, or bike. For longer trips, it’s easiest to have your own vehicle. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) provides a vehicle and passenger ferry service.  The closest major airports to the Outer Banks are Norfolk International Airport (ORF), located around 120 miles north, and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) located 230 miles west.

Car

Cars are a necessity in OBX to get from town to town. As a result, the traffic can be thick and slow during peak season. Rental agencies are at the Norfolk International Airport and in Kill Devil Hills.

Ferry

A handful of ferry services provide another way to hop around various islands. However, they can become crowded during summer. It’s best to make a reservation in advance online. The NCDOT routes run from Ocracoke Island to Hatteras, Cedar Island, or Swan Quarter. A privately run ferry service runs from Ocracoke Island to Portsmouth Island. These islands are only accessible via boat.

Bike

Consider getting a bike if you want a more leisurely and scenic way around OBX. The Outer Banks has many bike paths and is relatively flat, making for a leisurely cycle. You don’t need to purchase one yourself since there are bike rental shops in the larger towns.

Golfing the Outer Banks

Some of North Carolina’s finest year-round public courses on the Outer Banks challenge you. With the ocean breeze and beautiful sunny days, play the game on an island sandbar. The vistas are a change of pace from the usual greens. 

This 18-hole Scottish-style championship course came from the bright mind of Bob Moore. Bermuda fairways and bentgrass greens complement the Nags Head landscape and can stay in good condition throughout the year. Its clubhouse features a bar and restaurant, along with a golf shop. 

Former Masters Champion and PGA tour player Art Wall designed this 18-hole championship course. Admire beautiful ocean views and the edge of the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest. Inside the premises, you’ll find a restaurant and pro shop. 

Duck Woods Country Club

Designed by Ellis Maples, this 18-hole championship course is located in Southern Shores at Milepost 1 behind Kitty Hawk Elementary School. Bermuda fairways and bentgrass greens zigzag through natural wetlands, canals, and beautiful woodlands. Its full-service clubhouse features a lounge, golf shop, and banquet and dining facilities. 

Water Sports

Maritime life is a massive part of living in the Outer Banks. You can’t miss those uncrowded beaches and sand dunes. Naturally, water sports are a favorite pastime. With over 100 miles of golden sand and pure Atlantic saltwater, there is a different water sport to enjoy every day. The OBX is a playground for people to explore the waves. A few ways people engage with the sea:

Surfing 

The largest waves on the East Coast rush onshore on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The OBX’s reputation draws surfers from around the world.

Diving

With close to 3,000 shipwrecks along with its islands (some of which go back to the first English settlements in America), the Outer Banks is the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” That makes for thrilling dive sites.

Stand Up Paddleboarding

Paddling with a perfect sunrise on the horizon is a great way to spend the morning. For something a bit more challenging, take your SUP to catch some waves. 

Kayaking and Canoeing

Plenty of water access around the barrier islands enables you to launch canoes and kayaks to roam around open shallows and salt marshes. Some areas have rentals and guided tours.

Sailing

Sailors of any range can rent, learn, or play around the Intracoastal Waterway. Whether a newcomer or an expert, local docks and marinas give you the access you need. 

Kiteboarding & Windsurfing

Dubbed as the “Kiteboarding and Windsurfing Capital of the East Coast,” the Outer Banks’ consistent and steady winds, shallow sound waters, and temperate weather lure those in this sport. 

Public Beaches

Find public beach access at multiple points in the OBX. You can choose what kind of beach day you want. Less crowded beaches are in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Nags Head Beach has a fishing pier, while Kill Devils Hills, Duck, and Southern Shores are closer to vacation rental homes for convenience.

Fishing

Cast a line directly from the wide beaches, or visit Jeanette’s Pier. You can also bring your boat to ply the inner or outer banks waters. For prized catches, book a deep sea fishing charter.

Things To Do

Among the beaches along the East Coast, the Outer Banks has always been a family-friendly destination without the reputation of being a party town. Wide stretches of sand come without a beach umbrella or tourist trap in sight. It’s a simpler kind of life, but that sharpens the focus on the things in life that matter.

While spending your day in the quiet and tranquility of the beaches is the number one thing to do, it’s not the only thing you can do. There are many attractions to experience in the Outer Banks, which both visitors and residents take advantage of. Here are just a few of the notable attractions that OBX has to offer: 

Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Located in Nags Head, this popular attraction is home to the largest sand dune on the Atlantic coast. Entry is free, and you’re welcome to climb to the top of the dune. Have some fun on the way down by riding a sandboard as much as you want. The Wright Brothers’ 1902 glider replica can also be found here. The wide, open beach has plenty of room to fly your kite or take hang gliding lessons. 

Elizabethan Gardens

This 10.5-acre garden contains more than 500 various species of plants to admire. Its surroundings also provide a place of peace as you walk around. A live oak on the property is believed to be ancient, having grown here since 1585, when the first colonists arrived.  

 

Horses on the Beach with Ocean in the Background

Corolla Wild Horses

Corolla Beach is where you’ll discover the beauty and grace of wild horses by the beach. These descendants of the Spanish Mustangs are highly sought out by painters, photographers, and writers who visit this area for inspiration. It will take a bit of planning to see these stallions since they roam around various wetlands and beachfronts. However, you can explore further by renting a jeep or taking a guided tour.

North Carolina Aquarium

Not everything to see in the Outer Banks is outside. Indoor adventures are also available, including the North Carolina Aquarium, where rescued sea turtles are rehabilitated inside the STAR Center. Various exhibits and free animal programs and daily feedings allow you to see and learn about the creatures living right offshore. For a heart-pumping visit, schedule a dive with the aquarium’s sharks — if you’re brave enough. 

Visit Lighthouses

Climb iconic lighthouses like Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Currituck Beach Lighthouse for panoramic views.

Fish Jennette’s Pier

A historic and popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, or just enjoying the ocean breeze. It extends for 1,000 feet into the Atlantic out of Nags Head.

Shopping

A trip to the beach just wouldn’t be complete without spoiling yourself with a bit of retail therapy! For the best shopping experience, head to these areas where you can browse surf shops and coastal-themed gifts: 

Duck Waterfront Shops

The venue has the atmosphere and quaint village vibes of oceanfront shopping, For all your beach gear needs, head to Kitty Hawk Surf Co., which sells brands like Roxy, Billabong, and Quicksilver. It’s also the first destination for new and used water recreation gear. There’s no need to travel far to get there — they have shops in Corolla, Nags Head, Duck, and Rodanthe.

Scarborough Lane Shoppes

Since 1995, Scarborough Lane Shoppes has served shoppers at Duck, NC, with stores such as The Nags Head Shop, Outer Barks, Ocean Treasures, The Mystic Jewel, and Confetti Clothing. If you get hungry while you shop, nearby restaurants, such as Fishbones Restaurant and Duck Pizza Company, are there. 

Outlets Nags Head

If you’re looking for sunglasses, shirts, shoes, and more from your most-loved brands, look no further than Outlets Nags Head. With a range of shops like GAP, Banana Republic, Talbots, Michael Kors, J. Crew, and more, you’ll get a great selection of quality brands all in one place! 

Timbuck II

In the northern Outer Banks, this shopping area has over 60 stores, from the gift shops to the essential services. Stop in for dining or the weekly live music when in season.

Art and Culture

You won’t find massive art museums or rows of cute studios in the OBX. There are some art shops with locally made creations, particularly in Gallery Row in Nags Head. Dare County Arts Council has a gallery space in Manteo. The Winged Horse sculptures celebrate the islands’ unique history.

What the Outer Banks is really known for is the mouth-watering, locally caught seafood combined with classic North Carolina flavors. Its many islands serve it in locally-owned bars, restaurants, taverns, and bars. With so many options to choose from, you might drown in all the delicious food. 

  • Fish Heads Bar and Grill: This waterfront pub and tiki bar is in Nags Head. Its fishing pier offers locally caught favorites and live music. 
  • Sundogs: This raw grill and bar in Corolla pairs classics such as nachos with crab dip with lively karaoke and live music.
  • Black Pelican: Serving lunch and dinner daily, this restaurant charms with beautiful ocean views along with seafood, steaks, pizza, and vegetarian-friendly dishes. 

Sports and Sports Teams

The Outer Banks Sporting Events organizes various competitions and sporting events. It’s on a mission to promote healthy lifestyles and provide financial resources for education and relief needs. Because of the area’s beauty, running events have become quite popular. Water sports are also a big deal to the locals. Various sporting events in the Outer Banks include: 

  • The Annual Running of the Leprechauns: The 10K route includes portions of gravel trail and is a loop. The 5K route is all on the road and uses an out-and-back course. If you finish, you might get lucky! Finishers get a medal, while shirts are given to everyone. 
  • Outer Banks Triathlon: This grueling swim-bike-run marathon starts with a swim through Croatan Sound on Roanoke Island. Two days of multi-sport racing over three distances, including aquabike options.  
  • 8K, 5K, & Fun Run: These races occur on Saturdays and involve an out-and-back course, starting at the First Flight High School track in Kill Devil Hills. Kids and adults can also enjoy participating in the one-mile Fun Run. 
  • ESA Eastern Surfing Championships: Open to all amateurs, watch participants shred the waves off of Nags Head. The event is usually in September.
  • International Windsurfing Tour: Watch the colorful sails catching the wind as athletes in this sport come for the annual Wave Jam. The competition, which includes the freestyle national championships, is usually held in October in Avon.

Dog-Friendly OBX

  • You’ll also be happy to know that Outer Banks is a pet-friendly place. Take your four-legged friend to spend the day by the water and have an adventure. Check out these spots that your dog is sure to love.
  • Jockey’s Ridge
  • At Jockey’s Ridge, you can hike with your pup and enjoy a sandy walk by the dunes. However, ensure you’re up to date with the pet safety rules before going on your way.  
  • Snowbird Ice Cream
  • Treat yourself and your pooch to Snowbird Ice Cream in Nags Head. From milkshakes, burgers, and ice creams, you can snack on a selection of goodies while your pup enjoys a cup. 
  • Nags Head Woods
  • Keep your dog active by strolling in the Nags Head Woods. It has seven different trails, so you can spend a whole day walking, jogging, or biking with your fur baby.  

Real Estate

While the housing prices are quite high in the Outer Banks, it is still cheaper to live here compared to other island destinations like the Florida Keys. If you want a piece of your paradise, get in the game quickly. Here are just a few market trends that you should know: 

Increasing Sales 

The real estate market in the Outer Banks has been steadily increasing over the past few years. Between the beautiful lighthouses and the fine sand of the beaches, the alluring features of the Outer Banks will only continue to bring in more people every year. Closed sales were up in Q2 2024.

Rising Prices 

The median price for OBX homes was $585,000 for Q2 2024, continuing a trend of higher housing prices. Q3 2024 set a record high of $600,000. Year after year, the prices of homes in the Outer Banks area have only grown. In 2023, the market experienced low inventory. In 2024, more homes have been coming to market, with June 2024 reporting 62% more houses for sale than the prior year.

Homes Are Selling Even Faster

The number of days that a house in the Outer Banks stays on the market is low, a testament to the demand for homes. With five million visitors coming to the Outer Banks yearly, the demand for houses can only go up. In 2024, the year-to-date median days on the market were 25 by June 2024. Most homes are under contract in less than a month.

Best Outer Banks Towns 

With miles and miles to cover, where do you even start looking for an Outer Banks home? Here the largest towns in the OBX and their appeal for home buyers:

Kill Devil Hills

Kill Devil Hills is the most populated town in the Outer Banks.  The town was built on the site of the Wright brothers’ first powered flight, and has the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Home buyers are attracted to its central location. Being just south of the Wright Memorial Bridge and Kitty Hawk gives locals easy access to shops, restaurants, and schools.

Nags Head

Nags Head combines a laid-back beach lifestyle with convenient amenities. It draws both full-time residents and vacation home buyers. Its expansive sandy beaches, coastal arts scene, and numerous outdoor activities make it a prime location for those seeking a balanced coastal life. It’s beside Jockey’s Ridge park and its dramatic sand dune.

Kitty Hawk

Known for its scenic beauty and strong sense of community, Kitty Hawk has grown into an engaging town. The famous town has proximity to the bridge to the mainland, golf courses, resorts, nature reserves, and the beach is a significant draw for those interested in outdoor living.

Southern Shores

Southern Shores is renowned for its residential charm and lush maritime forests. The neighborhood-centric atmosphere, private beaches, and numerous community amenities make it particularly enticing to families and retirees looking to settle in an active town.

Duck

Duck is a quaint, upscale town known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful boardwalk. The historic homes attract home buyers looking for a peaceful retreat with luxury homes, boutique shopping, and fine dining options, offering a blend of relaxation and sophistication.

Manteo

Located on Roanoke Island, Manteo marries historic town charm and modern conveniences. Its picturesque waterfront, cultural events, and lively downtown area appeal to home buyers seeking a vibrant community. The island has multiple recreational activities, including the aquarium and a festival park.

Hatteras Village

Hatteras Village is a tranquil community at the southern tip of Hatteras Island with a rich maritime heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. It appeals to home buyers who appreciate a quieter lifestyle. As a perk, buying here provides access to some of the best fishing and watersport opportunities on the East Coast. Its proximity to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore makes it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful retreat with a deep connection to nature.

Corolla

Historic Corolla Village is in the Northern Beaches, where the road dead-ends into the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge. Famous for its wandering wild horses, the town is a relaxing vacation destination with all kinds of wildlife, direct beach access, and essential amenities.  

Welcome to Outer Banks!

While year-round living on the Outer Banks may not be for everyone, there are plenty of reasons why to invest in oceanfront property. Use it as a beach house for your summer getaways or rent it out as an Airbnb for the millions of tourists that visit every year. Or, make your dreams of oceanfront living come true. Outdoor adventures await when you choose to live in the Outer Banks.

If the ocean calls out to you, and you find beach living such an appealing change of pace from city life, then here’s your chance. With so much to look forward to, moving to the Outer Banks isn’t such a hard decision to make. Enjoy the great weather, food, culture, and plenty of things to do. No two days are ever the same. So pack your bags and get your sunglasses and swimming gear ready; the Outer Banks is calling you home. 

Updated October 2024

 

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