In this small seaside town is located in Brunswick County North Carolina. It’s at the southern end of the North Carolina’s Atlantic Ocean coastline with access to the intracoastal waterway. It’s home to about 600 residents.The entire town stretches south along Ocean Isle W Boulevard North to the intracoastal waterway access to the Atlantic Ocean.
Ocean Isle Beach is known as the “Gem of the Brunswick Islands” and is connected to the mainland by a bridge spanning the marsh savannas. The beach runs east and west offering a fishing. Boat launch and beach pass about every 500 feet. Along the beach is the museum of coastal Carolina, offering information on coastal life, a hands-on touch tank and science Hall.
Ocean Isle Beach Received the Best Restored Beach Award in 2008 from the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. After hurricane Hugo devastated the area in 1989, the town lobbied for federal funding to restore and preserve the beach and created deeper channels for boaters. This town won the award due to its economic and ecological benefits to the beach, it’s short and long-term success of the restoration projects and the challenges each community overcame during the course of the project.
This coastal barrier island located along the Atlantic Ocean was incorporated in 1959 and has a seasonal population of up to 25,000. The town offers 7 miles of pristine sandy beaches and a wonderful family environment.
Visitors to Ocean Isle Beach can enjoy some of the many golf courses, restaurants, shops and boutiques but what really sets us apart is our beach. With 7 miles of pristine sandy beaches, there’s always something to do, a place to relax or sites to see. There are several waterfront restaurants including Sharkey’s, The Isles, Giggling Mackerel and Pogies Waterfront Bar & Grill. Of course we have amazing fishing and Capt. Brant’s deep-sea fishing charters provide excellent fishing strips from the Gulf Stream to Inland Creeks.
Just up the road in Sunset Beach or Shalotte are numerous excellent golf courses providing 18 holes of golf for both public and private use.
REAL ESTATE
Real estate in the small-town ranges anywhere from $100,000-$800,000 for oceanfront property. Although most of the downtown is along the coastline, Ocean Isle Beach Stretches inland and there are typically between 200 and 300 properties for sale at any given time.
For more information on this coastal town please contact us at any time. Feel free to browse the website for more details and all properties for sale in the Ocean Isle Beach.
Image by Shay West Flickr
Ocean Isle Beach Real Estate
Ocean Isle Beach Sold Homes
Frequently Asked Questions About Living In Ocean Isle Beach
What is the Cost of Living?
The cost of living in Ocean Isle Beach is higher than the national average. The index is around 130. These costs are primarily driven by the cost of housing. Median home values in 2026 are roughly $800,000. Property and flood insurance are also a significant factor in real estate costs. Grocery and utility costs are closer to the national average. This is still a relatively affordable East Coast beach town, however.
Is It Good for Retirees?
The area is very popular with retirees. The median age is in the upper 60s; however, it is still a very family-friendly area as well. The town has great community events and outdoor activities. There are low state taxes on Social Security, making it more affordable.
What is the Hurricane Risk Like?
Ocean Isle Beach is a barrier island and very prone to tropical storms. Hurricanes do hit the area. Flood insurance is required for most properties. Homes are required to meet hurricane safety building codes. It is good to be aware of proper safety measures for hurricane season.
What is the Job Market Like?
Jobs within the town are limited. The economy of the area is mostly driven by tourism. Several people living in the area commute to neighboring towns, including Shallotte, Wilmington, and Myrtle Beach. The commute is not too long, and there are some remote workers living in the area.
What are the schools like?
The public schools in the area are under the Brunswick County School District. The district and many schools are rated above average. The town is very family-oriented, and schools are well regarded.
How Far is it from Large Cities in the Area?
Ocean Isle Beach is on a Barrier Island in Brunswick County. connected to the mainland by a causeway. The closest town is Shallotte, and many people drive there for basic necessities. Larger cities like Wilmington and Myrtle Beach are 45 to 60 minutes away. These areas feature airports, large shopping centers, major hospitals, and entertainment venues.
Is It a Good Place to Invest in a Second Home or Rental?
Yes, there are many properties in the area that are used as second homes and rentals. The beach location keeps rentals in high demand. The market for beach rentals has grown, but occupancy success is greater with properties closer to the water.