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Carteret County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#50 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
44.1
County Score
Property Tax 90.6Weather & Climate 68.5Income & Jobs 67.2

County Report Card

About Carteret County, North Carolina

Coastal Life with Low Taxes

Carteret County earns a 44.1, sitting below the national median of 50.0. The score reflects a high-income coastal economy that deals with significant environmental risks.

Parity with the North Carolina Average

At 44.1, Carteret is nearly identical to the state average of 44.7. It serves as a middle-ground for the state: better off than rural areas but more expensive than inland counties.

Superior Tax Benefits

The county features an elite tax score of 90.6, thanks to a very low effective tax rate of 0.450%. It also supports a strong income score of 67.2, with household medians at $70,235.

Environmental Risk and Cost

Being on the coast brings a low risk score of 6.5 and a cost score of 23.9. With home values at $304,200, the county is becoming less accessible for the average worker.

The Verdict for Coastal Enthusiasts

Carteret is a dream for those who want a low-tax coastal lifestyle and have the income to sustain it. Residents must accept higher environmental risks in exchange for beautiful scenery and strong financial scores.

Score breakdown

Tax90.6Cost23.9Safety25.8Health55.1Schools33.1Income67.2Risk6.5Water55.1Weather68.5
🏛90.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠23.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡25.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓33.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡6.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧55.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨37.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱34.3
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Carteret County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Carteret County

via TaxByCounty

Carteret has the nation's lowest rates

Carteret County's effective tax rate of 0.450% ranks among the absolute lowest in the United States, sitting far below the national median of 1.09%. The median property tax of $1,369 reflects strong coastal home values rather than a high tax burden.

Lowest rate in North Carolina

At 0.450%, Carteret's rate is the lowest or tied for the lowest among all 100 North Carolina counties, running 36% below the state's 0.701% average. Carteret residents enjoy one of the most tax-friendly environments in the entire state.

Most tax-favorable in the coastal region

Carteret's 0.450% rate is notably lower than Camden County (0.616%) to the north and dramatically lower than Bladen County (0.904%) inland. Among southeastern North Carolina counties, Carteret stands out as the clear tax winner.

Coastal homes pay minimal property tax

With a median home value of $304,200 and a rate of just 0.450%, Carteret homeowners typically pay approximately $1,369 in annual property tax. Homeowners with mortgages can expect total escrow payments around $1,417 per year.

Even favorable rates deserve verification

Though Carteret County offers exceptionally low tax rates, homeowners should still verify their assessments are accurate based on comparable recent sales. An appeal could save money even in North Carolina's most tax-friendly county.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Carteret County

via CostByCounty

Carteret aligns closely with national norms

Carteret County renters spend 18.1% of their income on rent, nearly matching the national average and reflecting a balanced housing market. With a median household income of $70,235 and median rent of $1,062, Carteret sits squarely in the national affordability mainstream.

Slightly better than state average

Carteret's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio edges out North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, positioning it among the more affordable coastal counties. The median rent of $1,062 exceeds the state average but aligns with coastal market realities.

Moderate coastal affordability

Carteret's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio is more favorable than Brunswick ($20.5%) and Buncombe ($21.8%), making it a middle-ground coastal choice. The $1,062 median rent is lower than Brunswick's $1,267 while reflecting comparable beach-town demand.

Homeownership slightly pricier than renting

Carteret renters pay $1,062 monthly while homeowners spend $1,088, with median home values of $304,200. The $70,235 median income means housing consumes just over 18% of household budgets—a manageable level for most families.

Carteret: balanced coastal choice

Relocating to Carteret offers coastal living with modest affordability advantages—median rent of $1,062 and an 18.1% rent-to-income ratio beat nearby Brunswick. It's an accessible beach community for households with incomes near the $70,000 median.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Carteret County

via IncomeByCounty

Carteret slightly below national median

Carteret County's median household income of $70,235 trails the national median of $74,755 by $4,520. Despite this modest gap, the county ranks solidly in the middle-income tier nationally, reflecting stable coastal employment.

Above-average among NC counties

At $70,235, Carteret County exceeds the state average of $61,072 by $9,163—a 15% premium. The county's maritime industries, tourism, and waterfront economy support above-average household earnings statewide.

Middle-tier earner in group

Carteret County ($70,235) closely matches Buncombe ($70,578) and Brunswick ($74,034), outpacing lower-income counties but trailing Cabarrus ($86,084) and Camden ($87,781). Its profile reflects a stable mid-coast economy.

Balanced housing affordability

With an 18.1% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $304,200, Carteret County households face moderate housing costs relative to income. The affordable rent-to-income ratio supports renters, while homeownership requires commitment to manage higher home prices.

Invest steadily in your future

Carteret County's middle-income stability supports disciplined wealth-building through retirement savings and diversified investments. Take advantage of employer plans, automate monthly contributions to index funds, and consider real estate appreciation as a long-term wealth driver.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Carteret County

via CrimeByCounty

Carteret County Maintains Strong Safety Standards

Carteret County enjoys a safety score of 97.1, indicating a very secure environment. Its total crime rate of 1,820.0 per 100K is comfortably lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding North Carolina Safety Averages

With a safety score of 97.1, Carteret outperforms the state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,820.0 per 100K is also lower than the state’s typical 2,050.0 per 100K.

Comparing Coastal Safety Profiles

Carteret is safer than neighbor Bladen County, which has a crime rate of 1,922.3 per 100K. However, it experiences more crime than Brunswick County, the region's safety leader at 1,268.2 per 100K.

Lower Violent Crime than National Peers

The local violent crime rate is 237.0 per 100K, which is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime follows this trend at 1,583.0 per 100K, below the national 2,015.7.

Proactive Protection for Coastal Homes

Maintaining Carteret's safety involves basic home security habits and community vigilance. Smart home technology, such as integrated alarms, provides peace of mind for both permanent and seasonal residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Carteret County

via HealthByCounty

Carteret tracks below national norms

Carteret County residents live to 75.6 years, roughly three years below the U.S. life expectancy of 78.9 years. The 15.3% poor/fair health rate sits comfortably below the 17% national average, reflecting moderately good population health.

Above-average performer in North Carolina

Carteret's 75.6-year life expectancy exceeds the state average of 74.4 years by 1.2 years, placing it in the upper-middle tier of NC counties. The 15.3% poor/fair health rate also sits below the state profile.

Solid regional health standing

Carteret's 75.6-year life expectancy ties Brunswick (77.1 years) and exceeds Bladen (70.3 years) and Caldwell (72.4 years). With 61 primary care providers per 100,000, Carteret offers reasonable access, though trailing Buncombe (141 per 100K) and Cabarrus (79 per 100K).

Near-average coverage, solid mental health access

Carteret's 12.3% uninsured rate sits just below North Carolina's 12.5% average, meaning most residents maintain coverage. The county provides 203 mental health providers per 100,000—doubling several peer counties and supporting residents' behavioral health needs.

Maintain your coverage stability

Carteret's strong coverage rates reflect community commitment to health, but those still without insurance should explore marketplace options immediately. Full coverage ensures you can access both primary and mental health providers in your county.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Carteret County

via SchoolsByCounty

Coastal Education Across 19 Public Schools

Carteret County supports 8,276 students through a network of 19 public schools across 2 districts. The landscape consists of 10 elementary, 4 middle, and 5 high schools, providing comprehensive coverage for coastal communities. One alternative school is also available to support students with non-traditional learning needs.

Competitive Spending and Academic Achievement

Carteret County invests $6,998 per pupil, slightly exceeding the North Carolina state average of $6,969. While the graduation rate of 86.0% is just below the state and national averages, the county maintains a solid composite school score of 51.4. This reflects a well-funded system dedicated to maintaining high standards across its coastal campuses.

Carteret County Public Schools and Charter Options

Carteret County Public Schools is the primary district, serving 8,081 students in 18 different schools. Tiller School operates as a charter alternative, providing specialized education for 195 students. This dual-district system offers families a choice between a large public network and a smaller charter environment.

Town and Rural Locales with Moderate Sizes

The county's schools are located in 11 town settings and 8 rural areas, offering a distinct coastal-town feel. West Carteret High is the largest campus with 1,146 students, while the average school size across the county is 436. This moderate sizing allows for robust student activities without losing the sense of local community.

Discover Homes in Top Coastal School Zones

Housing demand remains strong in areas served by West Carteret and Croatan High Schools due to their size and resources. Families often seek properties in the Newport or White Oak Elementary zones for their well-established reputations. When buying a home in Carteret, school proximity and coastal access go hand-in-hand for long-term value.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Carteret County

via RiskByCounty

Carteret faces above-average national risk

Carteret County scores 93.48 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively moderate category—well above the national average. The coastal location drives extreme hurricane and flood exposure despite more moderate tornado and earthquake risks.

Third-riskiest county in North Carolina

Carteret ranks among the state's highest-risk counties with a composite score of 93.48, trailing only Brunswick (95.77) and Buncombe (89.34). The county's Atlantic coastline and barrier island geography explain its elevated hazard profile.

Coastal risk far exceeds inland neighbors

Carteret (93.48) sits alongside Brunswick (95.77) in North Carolina's riskiest tier, while nearby inland Camden (2.54) experiences virtually no comparable hazards. This demonstrates how coastal location dramatically amplifies natural disaster exposure.

Hurricanes and wildfires dominate

Carteret residents face 98.75 hurricane risk—nearly certain exposure—combined with 88.58 wildfire risk and 88.20 flood risk. Tornado and earthquake risks (45.39 and 42.37 respectively) are notably lower than peer coastal counties.

Comprehensive coastal insurance essential

Carteret homeowners must secure wind, flood, and comprehensive property insurance given hurricane and wildfire exposure. Reinforce roof, windows, and structural connections, and maintain an updated evacuation plan with critical documents stored in a waterproof, off-site location.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Carteret County

via WeatherByCounty

Exceptional Coastal Warmth

Carteret County is one of the warmest spots in the country, with an annual average temperature of 64.4°F. This coastal climate is heavily influenced by the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

North Carolina's Warmest Coastal Tier

The county is significantly warmer than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F. Its maritime location keeps winter temperatures much higher than the state's interior.

High Precipitation and Ocean Moderation

Carteret is one of the wettest counties in the region, receiving 58.8 inches of rain annually. Ocean breezes limit extreme heat, resulting in only 18 days above 90°F despite the high average temperature.

Humid Summers and Soft Winters

Winters are among the warmest in the state at 48.7°F, with snowfall being a rare 0.5-inch event. July averages 81.1°F, but extreme heat is far less frequent than in the inland Piedmont.

Invest in High-Quality Rain Gear

Heavy rainfall and high humidity require residents to invest in dehumidification and moisture-resistant building materials. Snow gear is rarely needed, but high-quality rain gear is a daily essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Carteret County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Sands of the Coast

Carteret County soil shows a pH of 5.12, matching the state average but trailing the national median of 6.5. This acidic level reflects the maritime environment and the specific minerals found along the coast.

Predominantly Sandy Composition

The soil is 76.1% sand, leaving only 12.9% silt and a very low 6.8% clay. This creates a very loose, beach-like texture where water moves through the ground rapidly.

Surprisingly High Organic Matter

Despite its sandiness, Carteret contains 10.25% organic matter, double the state average of 5.12%. The available water capacity is 0.126 in/in, which is slightly below the state average but supported by that high organic content.

Rapid Drainage for Maritime Plants

No specific drainage classes are listed, but the 76.1% sand content indicates very rapid drainage. This prevents standing water but means gardeners must use mulch to keep the soil from drying out in the coastal sun.

Zone 8b Garden Opportunities

Carteret's mild winters in zone 8b are perfect for figs, rosemary, and salt-tolerant shrubs. Take advantage of your high organic matter to build a garden that thrives in this unique, sandy environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Carteret County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Challenges for Carteret Lawns

With a lawn difficulty score of 34.3, Carteret County is more challenging than the state average of 40.8. This Zone 8b coastal environment requires specialized care to manage its unique climate and soil. Success depends on choosing the right grass for the sandy, wet conditions.

High Rainfall and Long Growing Seasons

Carteret receives a high 58.8 inches of annual rain, which can lead to soggy conditions in low-lying areas. Despite the southern location, the county only sees 18 extreme heat days, thanks to cooling coastal breezes. The long growing season is reflected in the high 5,746 growing degree days recorded here.

Extremely Sandy Coastal Soil Profile

The soil is 76.1% sand, the highest in this group, which leads to rapid drainage and potential nutrient leaching. With a pH of 5.12, the soil is also quite acidic and requires regular amendments to support healthy turf. Adding organic matter is crucial here to help the soil hold onto the 58 inches of rain it receives.

Moderate Drought Pressure Near the Coast

The county is currently 100% abnormally dry, but it has zero severe drought coverage at this time. Over the past year, residents have managed 20 weeks of drought, which is lower than many inland counties. Consistent monitoring of sandy soil moisture is still necessary during the drier summer months.

A Long Window for Coastal Planting

St. Augustine and Zoysia are top picks for Carteret's sandy soil and long growing season. You have a very long window to plant, between the early last frost on March 11th and the late first frost on December 1st. This extended season allows for great root development if the grass is well-fed and watered.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carteret County's county score?
Carteret County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 44.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Carteret County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Carteret County ranks #50 among all counties in North Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Carteret County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Carteret County is $1,369, with an effective tax rate of 0.45%. This earns Carteret County a tax score of 90.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Carteret County?
The median household income in Carteret County, North Carolina is $70,235 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Carteret County earns an income score of 67.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Carteret County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Carteret County scores 44.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Carteret County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Carteret County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.