August 2026 Crystal Coast Market Report

July Brought Strong Activity to the Crystal Coast

July was a good month for the Crystal Coast, with plenty of activity across the area’s coastal communities. Taking a closer look at the numbers, Emerald Isle came in with the highest number of active listings at 115, leading the way in available inventory. Beaufort saw the most new listings with 31, while also tying for the highest number of sold homes with 31 properties closed during the month. When it came to average sales price, Pine Knoll Shores took the lead with an impressive $1,045,000. From inventory and new listings to closed sales and home values, July showed continued movement throughout the Crystal Coast market.

Atlantic Beach continued to see steady activity in July, with 77 active listings available throughout the month. The community welcomed 12 new listings while 21 homes sold, showing that buyers remained active along the coast. The average sales price reached an impressive $761,286, highlighting the continued appeal and strong value of Atlantic Beach real estate. 

​Beaufort had a standout July, with 111 active listings and an impressive 31 new listings, putting the community in the lead for new inventory. Beaufort also recorded 31 sold homes, making it an even score for the month and showing strong activity on both sides of the market. The average sales price came in at $500,508, adding to another solid month for this charming Crystal Coast community.

Cape Carteret saw a busy July, with 8 active listings, 7 new listings, and 8 homes sold during the month. While the community had a smaller inventory compared to some of the larger Crystal Coast markets, the numbers showed solid movement, with the number of homes sold matching the total active listings. The average sales price for July came in at $493,300, making for another active month in Cape Carteret.

Emerald Isle came in strong during July, taking the lead for active listings with 115 homes on the market. The community also saw 19 new listings and 15 homes sold, showing steady movement throughout the month. The average sales price reached $789,413, reflecting the continued demand for homes in this popular Crystal Coast destination.

Indian Beach had a pretty good month in July, with 28 active listings, 6 new listings, and 4 homes sold throughout the month. The average sales price came in at $806,250, showing that while activity was a little quieter, the community continued to see strong home values along the Crystal Coast.

Morehead City had a strong showing in July, with 78 active listings and 28 new listings coming onto the market. The community also saw 28 homes sold, making it another even score just like Beaufort, with new listings and sold homes matching one another. The average sales price for July came in at $678,412, reflecting continued activity and solid home values throughout Morehead City.

​Pine Knoll Shores had a quieter month when it came to overall activity, with 36 active listings, 5 new listings, and 6 homes sold in July. However, the community stood out when it came to home values, taking the lead for the highest average sales price on the Crystal Coast at an impressive $1,045,000. That top spot shows just how strong the luxury market continues to be in Pine Knoll Shores.

Swansboro had a solid month in July, with 52 active listings, 22 new listings, and 20 homes sold throughout the community. The steady number of new and sold homes shows that there was continued movement in the local market, while the average sales price came in at $497,525. Overall, Swansboro continued to show healthy activity as summer rolled along on the Crystal Coast.

​The Crystal Coast real estate market continues to make waves, with steady buyer activity, strong sales, and home values holding their own. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway, searching for your next home, or thinking about selling, there are opportunities to be found throughout the region.

Buying or selling a home comes with plenty of moving pieces, from negotiations and inspections to financing and paperwork. Having the right REALTOR® by your side can make all the difference. Carl Johnson and his trusted network of industry professionals are here to guide you through each step, keeping the process smooth, informed, and as stress-free as possible.

Ready to make your move along the Crystal Coast? Call Carl Johnson Real Estate at 919-880-0904 and let’s take the next step toward reaching your coastal real estate goals.

CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Greater Triangle Market Report.