February 2026 Crystal Coast Market Report

January heated up on the Crystal Coast to start the year, with Beaufort leading the market in both new and active listings. Beaufort closed the month with 26 new listings and 104 active listings, signaling strong inventory growth. Morehead City recorded the highest number of sold listings with 19 closings, while Atlantic Beach posted the highest average sales price at $1,108,333, reflecting continued demand in the luxury coastal segment.

In January, Atlantic Beach recorded 64 active listings, 12 new listings, and 3 closed sales. The area also posted an average sales price of $1,108,333, the highest average sales price across the Crystal Coast, reflecting continued strength in the luxury coastal market.

In January, Beaufort led the Crystal Coast in active listings with 104 homes on the market. The area saw 12 new listings and 3 closed sales during the month, showing a steady pace as the year got underway. The average sales price came in at $515,458, offering a solid mix of value and opportunity. With inventory levels higher, buyers had more choices, while sellers benefited from continued interest in the Beaufort market.

In January, Cape Carteret saw 8 active listings, with 6 new listings and 2 homes sold. The average sales price reached $359,000, showing steady demand in this more affordable segment of the Crystal Coast. With limited inventory and new listings coming online, the market remained active as buyers looked for value and location.

In January, Emerald Isle had a total of 102 active listings, with 25 new listings and 16 homes sold. The average sales price came in at $1,027,719, reflecting strong demand in this highly desirable coastal area. With plenty of inventory and a healthy number of new listings, buyers had options, while sellers continued to see solid interest in their properties.

In January, Indian Beach had 25 active listings and 4 new listings coming onto the market. While there were no closed sales during the month and no average sales price to report, the area still offered buyers options, and inventory remained steady as the year began.

In January, Morehead City had 64 active listings and 23 new listings, leading the Crystal Coast with 19 homes sold. The average sales price came in at $622,684, reflecting strong demand in this central coastal market. With healthy activity across listings and sales, Morehead City started the year with momentum for both buyers and sellers.

In January, Pine Knoll Shores had 25 active listings, with 9 new listings and 1 closed sale. The average sales price was $385,000, reflecting steady activity in this smaller coastal community. Buyers had a handful of options to choose from, while sellers saw continued interest despite limited sales volume.

In January, Swansboro had 55 active listings, with 17 new listings and 7 homes sold. The average sales price came in at $531,929, showing solid activity in this growing coastal community. With a healthy mix of inventory and sales, Swansboro started the year with strong momentum for both buyers and sellers.

Overall, the Crystal Coast market started the year with strong activity and a range of opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Across the region, prices remain competitive, inventory is varied, and interest from buyers is strong, setting the stage for a dynamic and exciting year ahead on the Crystal Coast. 

Buying or selling a home can feel overwhelming, paperwork, inspections, and market changes can make the process stressful. With Carl Johnson by your side, it becomes clear, manageable, and even exciting. Carl’s extensive network of trusted professionals, from lenders to inspectors, ensures every step is covered so you can make confident, informed decisions.

Ready to find your perfect spot on the beautiful Crystal Coast? Call 919-880-0904 and let Carl Johnson Real Estate guide you every step of the way!

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