​​

Your New Bern, NC Real Estate Questions Answered

Welcome to the birthplace of Pepsi, New Bern, NC. However, there’s more to life in New Bern than a refreshing beverage. As residents know, historic New Bern is a charming waterfront town with small-town values and lots of amenities.

Are you thinking of buying or selling real estate in New Bern, NC? If so, read on for some valuable information about the market. We’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about home prices, condo prices, property taxes, and more.

So whether you’re just starting to research New Bern as a potential home market or ready to take the plunge and start touring properties, read on for some helpful information.

What is the average price of a home in New Bern, NC?

The average cost of a home in New Bern, NC, was around $289,000 as of March 2022. However, prices vary depending on the size and location of the property. For example, homes in the downtown historic district tend to be more expensive than those in other parts of town.

The most affordable March 2022 listing was a $64,900 foreclosure with three bedrooms and one bathroom. The most expensive was a waterfront estate for $4 million with four bedrooms, 6.5-bathrooms, and a six-car garage.

Are there any condos or townhomes available in New Bern, NC? 

In April 2022, 30 condos and townhomes were available. There are a number of condo complexes in New Bern, and many of them offer a variety of amenities like swimming pools and fitness centers.

Like home prices, condo prices vary depending on location and size. The most affordable was $100,000 with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and 976 sq ft. The most expensive listing was a waterfront condo for $459,727 with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

What is the property tax rate for New Bern, NC?

The effective property tax rate in New Bern, NC, was $0.4822 in 2021-2022. Craven County’s tax rate was $0.5494. For every $100 of a home’s assessed value, the homeowner will pay $1.0316 in taxes. Owners are also assessed an annual $60 recycling fee. 

What county is New Bern, NC in?

New Bern is located in Craven County, NC. Craven County is a small, rural county located on the coast. It’s known for its beaches, rivers, forests, and charming small towns. It has eight recognized municipalities, with New Bern being the county seat.

There are plenty of things to do in Craven County! Some favorite activities include fishing on the Neuse River, hiking in the Croatan National Forest, and visiting the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

Craven County has long been a strategic location, from colonial days, to the Civil War, to modern times. It is home to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. You can experience important moments in American history at local historical sites.

Is New Bern, NC growing?

New Bern is growing! The city’s population was 31,291 in the April 2020 Census, adding just under 2,000 new residents since 2010. The average resident age was 40.4. 

Craven County on the whole lost two percent of its population. However, the area’s gross domestic product (GDP) has been increasing, so the economy is doing well. 

What neighborhoods are in New Bern, NC?

New Bern is a fairly large city with many different neighborhoods. Some favorites include the downtown historic district, Brices Creek, Trent Park, and Historic Riverside. Each neighborhood has its own unique character and offers something different for home buyers.

Downtown New Bern is a center for historic real estate. Some homes date to the 19th century and come in various styles, like Georgian, Gothic revival, and Colonial. Residents have easy access to the riverfront and the town center amenities like art galleries and upscale restaurants.

Nearby Ghent is another historic neighborhood. It provides access to downtown’s shopping and entertainment venues while having two waterfront parks within its limits.

Riverside was the first planned suburb. While historical in nature, the home styles are slightly more varied. Find Colonial Revival, contemporary brick homes, and small coastal bungalows. Many homes have been or are undergoing renovation. Waterfront lots are available.

Degraffrenreid Park was developed between 1926 and 1956. It’s beside Fort Totten Park, which has a playground in addition to the historical site. Find carefully maintained lawns, Federal-style homes, and stately homes.

Olde Towne homes are stately, and many have Trent River views. Some have direct access to the water. Being further from the city center, it’s considered a more quiet neighborhood.

Greenbrier is a wooded community close to shopping and the Craven Community College. Housing options include golf course homes and lakefront homes.

Are there any waterfront properties found in New Bern, NC? 

Yes, there are several waterfront properties found in New Bern, NC. The Neuse River and Trent River both run through the city, and several neighborhoods offer access to these waterways. In addition, there are lakes in the area that offer great fishing and swimming opportunities.

You’ll find waterfront real estate in downtown, Five Points, Fairfield Harbor, and more New Bern neighborhoods.

How is golf in New Bern, NC?

Yes, golfing is available in New Bern, NC. The golf courses located in the area offer challenging layouts and beautiful views.

Emerald Golf Club is located inside the city limits. It runs tournaments and golf events throughout the year. Golf Pass voted this public course in the top 10 public courses in the state in 2021.

New Bern Golf & Country Club is technically inside Trent Woods on the Trent River. The member-owned club benefits from an Ellis Maples design and was renovated by Bob Moore in 2017. It has a Pro Shop and runs tournaments during the year. 

More courses are available in nearby Taberna, Carolina Colours, River Bend, and Fairfield Harbour.

Are there golf course communities in New Bern, NC? 

Yes, there are several golf course communities in and around New Bern, NC. These communities offer access to some of the best golf courses in the area and a variety of other amenities like swimming pools and tennis courts. They’re a great option for those who love golfing and want to be able to walk to the course from their home.

Upscale living is available at Fairfield Harbor, which has four marinas with boat slips for owners. Other amenities include a golf course, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Housing is mixed, with waterfront single-family homes and condominiums.

Another option is Greenbrier, home to Emerald Golf Club. Around 660 homes are in the neighborhood. Additional amenities include a clubhouse with an Olympic-size pool and tennis courts.

Carolina Colours is a newer neighborhood south of New Bern developed with contemporary amenities like fiber optic connectivity for all homes. Neighborhood amenities include walking trails, tennis courts, a fitness center, and an 18-hole golf course.

What areas are near New Bern, NC?

New Bern is located in a great location. It’s close to several major cities, like Raleigh and Charlotte, and it’s just a short drive from the coast. This makes it a great place to live if you want to enjoy both city and coastal living.

The Town of Trent Woods sits between New Bern and the Trent River. It’s a charming small town with a historic district and various restaurants and shops. More waterfront real estate is available in Trent Woods.

Bridgeton faces New Bern across the Neuse River. It’s accessible over the Neuse River Bridge and has more waterfront living options.

Fairfield Harbor is a resort and residential community that sits along the banks of the Neuse River. Its full-service marina can accommodate vessels up to 60 feet. The community features a breath-taking waterfront and an 18-hole golf course. 

MCAS Cherry Point is near Havelock and is home to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and Fleet Readiness Center East. It is one of the largest Marine Corps air stations.

Croatan National Forest is a coastal forest with 159,000 acres of estuary, longleaf pine, and hardwood lands. Recreation facilities are available for camping, picnicking, and day use.

Morehead City is a port town with centuries of maritime history. Known as the Crystal Coast, it’s 50 minutes from New Bern. The beach town is a jumping-off point for fishing, boating, and beachfront fun on the Atlantic.

Jacksonville, North Carolina, is another military center in the coastal region. Home to Marine Corps Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville is on the banks of the New River and a short drive from the Outer Banks. It’s 45 minutes from New Bern.

Greenville, NC lies about an hour’s drive northwest. It is a cultural, economic, and educational hub in eastern North Carolina. 

What to know about living in New Bern, NC

If you’re looking for a charming Southern town to call home, New Bern is definitely worth considering. There are plenty of things to do in New Bern, and the cost of living is relatively low. Plus, the weather is great year-round! 

If you’re looking at living in New Bern, contact a local real estate agent to find the right neighborhood for you.