May 2026 Crystal Coast Market Report

The Crystal Coast absolutely came alive in April with strong numbers across the board. Emerald Isle dominated the market with 132 active listings while also leading in average sales price at an impressive $1,058,855, proving luxury coastal living is still in high demand. Over in Morehead City, the momentum was just as exciting with the highest number of new listings at 36 and the most closed sales in April with 29. As we head deeper into the spring and summer market, the Crystal Coast continues to turn heads with incredible activity and strong buyer interest.

Atlantic Beach continued the Crystal Coast momentum in April with 92 active listings, 24 new listings, and 11 properties sold. The market also delivered a strong average sales price of $441,036, showing buyers are still making moves along the coast as demand for beach living stays strong heading into the warmer months.

Beaufort kept the Crystal Coast energy going strong in April with 121 active listings, 38 new listings hitting the market, and 28 properties sold. The area also posted an impressive average sales price of $597,766, showing continued demand for Beaufort’s coastal charm, waterfront lifestyle, and historic appeal.

Cape Carteret saw steady activity throughout April with 12 active listings, 10 new listings hitting the market, and 6 homes sold. The area also posted a solid average sales price of $435,833, showing continued interest in this growing coastal community and its laid-back lifestyle near the water.

Emerald Isle led the Crystal Coast market in April, taking the top spot with 132 active listings and the highest average sales price at an impressive $1,058,855. The market stayed active throughout the month with 34 new listings hitting the market and 19 properties sold, continuing to show strong demand for luxury coastal living and waterfront lifestyle opportunities.

​Indian Beach continued to make waves along the Crystal Coast in April with 32 active listings, 11 new listings, and 4 properties sold. The area also posted a strong average sales price of $748,475, highlighting the continued appeal of coastal luxury, ocean views, and laid-back beach living in this sought-after seaside community.

Moorehead City stayed at the center of the Crystal Coast action in April with 67 active listings and led the market in both new listings and closed sales, coming in at 36 new listings and 29 sold properties. The area also posted a strong average sales price of $553,897, showing continued buyer demand for one of the coast’s most active and desirable waterfront communities.

​Swansboro kept the momentum rolling in April with 55 active listings, 32 new listings, and 20 homes sold throughout the month. The market also saw a solid average sales price of $430,920, showing continued interest in Swansboro’s coastal charm, boating lifestyle, and growing appeal among buyers looking to enjoy life by the water.

​The Crystal Coast real estate market continues to stay strong, with steady buyer activity, competitive sales, and impressive home values across the region. From waterfront retreats to charming coastal homes, the market is creating exciting opportunities for both sellers ready to maximize their property’s value and buyers searching for the perfect place to call home along the coast.

Buying or selling a home can come with a lot of moving parts, from inspections and negotiations to financing and paperwork. Having the right professional by your side makes all the difference. Carl Johnson works closely with a trusted network of lenders, inspectors, contractors, and industry professionals to help make the entire process smooth, informed, and far less stressful from start to finish.

If you’re thinking about making a move along the beautiful Crystal Coast, now is a great time to start the conversation. Call Carl Johnson Real Estate today at 919-880-0904 and take the next step toward your coastal real estate goals.

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