Set on North Carolina's picturesque Crystal Coast, Beaufort is a story waiting to be discovered. Beaufort embodies the charm of coastal living. But beyond its postcard-worthy beauty lies a dynamic community shaped by a mix of retirees, working professionals, and families.

Who Lives Here? A Peek into Beaufort's Residents

We looked at the population that lives within a 10-minute drive of downtown Beaufort. Beaufort is a town where time slows down, and people from all walks of life come together to create a lively, intergenerational community. At its heart are the residents who make it unique:

A More Mature, Settled Population

With a median age of 53.5, Beaufort has a more mature demographic than most towns. The community reflects a strong appeal to retirees:

Baby Boomers (33.81%) form the backbone of Beaufort, drawn by its tranquil atmosphere, historic appeal, and coastal charm.
Younger generations, including Generation X (20.32%) and Millennials (18.20%), are also present, balancing the retiree vibe with entrepreneurial energy and family life.
Children under 18 are relatively few, with only 5.14% belonging to Generation Alpha—a testament to the town’s slower pace and focus on adults and retirees. We think that this will see an increase, however.

A Community Rooted in Family and Stability

Nearly 50% of residents aged 15+ are married, a sign of stable households and long-term commitments.
The gender split is almost equal, with 51.86% women and 48.14% men, further emphasizing balance within the community.

Economic Strength and Opportunities in Beaufort

For all its charm, Beaufort is a town with a growing economy, fueled by its residents’ and visitors’ spending power and potential for retail development.

Income and Affordability: A Tale of Two Worlds

The median household income is $55,440, slightly below national averages, but the average household income of $74,448 indicates pockets of significant affluence.
Housing costs are relatively high compared to income levels, with a median home value of $427,889 and an average home value of $535,122. This creates challenges for affordability, particularly for younger families and middle-income workers.
Yet, 65.22% of residents own their homes, a reflection of pride in homeownership and long-term commitment to the community.

Disposable Income and Retail Potential

With $247.6 million in aggregate disposable income, Beaufort residents have substantial spending power. Yet the retail goods index (68) suggests that local shopping options may not meet their needs. This opens doors for entrepreneurs to create niche retail experiences, particularly those that align with the town’s coastal identity:

Local shops offering artisan crafts, coastal-themed decor, and farm-to-table dining are worth considering.
The town’s historic charm makes it a prime location for boutique stores and specialty shops.

The Beaufort Lifestyle: Peaceful and Enriching

Life in Beaufort is about more than just numbers—it's about the stories behind them.

A Historic and Picturesque Community

The median home construction year of 1973 tells a story of history and tradition. Walking through Beaufort is like stepping back in time, with homes that reflect the architecture of yesteryear, adding to its timeless charm.

A Highly Educated Population

Beaufort values education, with 42.42% of residents holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. This sets the stage for cultural enrichment, including book clubs, art galleries, and educational programs that appeal to the community’s intellectual side.

A Deeply Religious and Connected Community

Faith is a cornerstone of life in Beaufort:

45.73% of residents attend religious services regularly, forming a community anchored in shared values and traditions.
Churches and faith-based organizations play a significant role in connecting people, offering opportunities for social events, volunteerism, and mutual support.

Safety, Healthcare, and Community Needs

While Beaufort offers a peaceful lifestyle, some challenges remain:

Crime levels are moderate, with a personal crime index of 76 and a property crime index of 113. Continued investment in public safety could enhance its appeal.
The health care index (72) indicates that access to medical services is slightly below average. Given the town’s aging population, improvements in healthcare infrastructure and services could address critical needs.

Politics and Civic Engagement

Beaufort’s political identity is a blend of perspectives:

37.91% identify as “middle of the road,” making it a moderate community open to balanced political discourse.
While 38.18% lean conservative and 23.89% lean liberal, the nearly even split in party affiliations (30.21% Republican, 28.64% Democratic) reflects a town where diverse viewpoints coexist.

Why Beaufort is a Coastal Treasure

Beaufort, NC, is more than just a coastal village - it represents a very intentional lifestyle. With its historic homes, thriving retiree community, and opportunities for growth, it’s a place where tradition meets the future. Whether you’re a retiree seeking tranquility, a professional looking to establish roots, or an entrepreneur with big dreams, Beaufort has a place for you.

Learn more about Beaufort