Population
1,000 - 5,000
~3,870 residents
Median Income
$85,982
Household median
Home Value
$405,000
Median price
Area Type
Rural
5.7 sq mi
Location
Detailed Information
Demographics
- Population Range:
- 1,000 - 5,000
- Median Income:
- $85,982
- Classification:
- Rural
Housing Market
- Median Value:
- $405,000
- Price Range:
- $325,000 - $475,000
- Land Area:
- 5.7 sq mi
Data Quality: 100%
ExcellentData from US Census Bureau 2023 • US Census Bureau
Zillow Home Value Index
Real-time market data powered by Zillow • Updated October 2025
Metro Area: Morehead City, NC
Typical Home Value in 28594
Price Appreciation
Historical Price Trend
Historical home values show market trends over time. Values are smoothed and seasonally adjusted.
Investment Insight
Declining values: Home values decreased by -0.90% over the past year, which may present buying opportunities.
💡 Note: Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Consider local market factors, job growth, and development plans when evaluating real estate investments.
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) data provided by Zillow Group. ZHVI represents the typical home value for homes in the 35th to 65th percentile range. Data is updated monthly and reflects market trends as of October 31, 2025.
Median Income
$85,982
vs state avg
Median Home Value
$405,000
vs state avg
Population
3,870
Rural
Quality of Life
70/100
Good
What's It Like to Live in Emerald Isle?
Key insights about ZIP 28594 at a glance

Population
3,870
Rural community

Median Income
$86k
Household earnings

Median Home Value
$405k
Housing market

Affordability
4.7
Price-to-income ratio
Your Day in Emerald Isle

Start your day with quality education options in Emerald Isle

Explore local shops and restaurants in Emerald Isle

Unwind in green spaces and community areas in Emerald Isle
Quick Compare
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Explore Emerald Isle, NC
Visual guide to life in this area





Economy & Employment
Job market and economic indicators

Median Household Income
$85,982

Median Home Value
$405,000

Home-to-Income Ratio
4.7x
Education & Schools
Educational opportunities and demographics in 28594

Local Schools
Emerald Isle offers diverse educational opportunities for all ages
85%
Estimated graduates
851
School-age residents
School Quality
Above Average
Based on area demographics
Healthcare & Wellness
Medical facilities and health resources in your area

Quality Healthcare Access
Emerald Isle area has multiple medical facilities serving the community
5-10
Healthcare facilities nearby
< 5mi
Average distance to hospital
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor spaces and recreational activities

Community Parks
Multiple green spaces and recreational facilities for families
Parks
3-5 nearby
Sports
Fields & courts
Trails
Walking paths
Events
Community gatherings
Shopping & Dining
Retail, restaurants, and local businesses

Local Shopping
Emerald Isle offers diverse shopping and dining experiences
Restaurants
20+ dining options
Retail Stores
Major & local shops
Cafes & More
Local favorites
Pros & Cons of Living in ZIP 28594
Advantages
- High median income at $85,982, well above state average
- Rural character with natural surroundings
- Small, tight-knit community atmosphere
Considerations
- High cost of housing compared to state average
- Limited access to urban amenities and services
Living in Emerald Isle, NC 28594
Emerald Isle offers a unique lifestyle in the heart of NC. This rural community provides residents with a close-knit community feel.
Spacious Living
Large lots, privacy, and connection to nature.
Car-Dependent
Personal vehicle necessary for most daily activities.
Who Lives Here
Middle to upper-middle class families, working professionals, and dual-income households.
Lifestyle & Activities
Rural residents who appreciate open spaces, privacy, and connection to nature.
Household Composition
Family households with multi-generational homes and long-term residents.
What's Life Like Here? (AI Insights)
Data & Demographics
Demographic Distribution
Age Distribution
Education Levels
ZIP 28594 by the Numbers
Interactive data visualizations for Rural living
Total Population
0
Median Income
$0
Home Value
$0
Quality Score
0/100
Comparative Metrics
3.9% of max (100,000)
57.3% of max (150,000)
50.6% of max (800,000)
5.79
out of 100
Affordability
7.74
out of 100
Community Size
57.32
out of 100
Economic Strength
Transportation & Commute
Average commute time is approximately 35 minutes, typical for rural areas.
Distance to Major Cities
Regional Hub
15-40 miles
25-60 min
drive time
Note: Commute times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific locations.
Weather & Climate
Climate Type
Varied regional climate
Seasonal Pattern
Four distinct seasons with typical North American weather patterns
Weather Highlights
- Seasonal variety
- Regional weather characteristics
- Diverse outdoor activities
Discover Emerald Isle Amenities
Everything you need, right in your neighborhood

Schools
12+ locations

Healthcare
8+ locations

Shopping
50+ locations

Parks
15+ locations
How Does Emerald Isle Stack Up?
See how ZIP 28594 compares to state and national averages
Income Comparison
Home Value Comparison
Ready to Explore More?
Compare Emerald Isle with other areas or find your perfect ZIP code match
Living Here: Pros & Cons (AI Analysis)
Who Lives Here?
Community Profile
ZIP code 28594 in Emerald Isle, NC (Carteret) is a small community with approximately 3,870 residents. The area is classified as rural, offering a peaceful, rural environment.
Income Demographics
The median household income is $85,982, which is above national average. This suggests a community with strong economic stability and higher purchasing power.
Fun Fact: Rural communities often appeal to those seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life.
Housing & Rent
Median Home Value
$405,000
Above Average Market
Est. Monthly Rent
$1,620
Typical 2-3BR
Market Overview
The housing market in ZIP 28594 is competitive market with strong appreciation. With a median home value of $405,000, this area represents a premium investment in a sought-after location.
Rent vs Buy
Renting in this ZIP code typically costs around $1,620/month for a 2-3 bedroom home. The moderate rental prices make this area accessible for both renters and buyers.
Jobs & Income
Median Household Income
$85,982
Per Year
Job Market
Emerald Isle offers a growing job market with opportunities primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. The local economy supports a mix of traditional and emerging industries.
Commute & Transportation
Average commute times in this area are approximately 15-25 minutes. Personal vehicles are essential, though traffic is generally light.
Schools Overview
School Quality
ZIP code 28594 in Emerald Isle, NC generally features quality schools with diverse offerings. The area's good school ratings make it suitable for families seeking quality education options.
Education Options
Families in this ZIP code typically have access to public schools, private institutions, and charter options. Rural schools typically offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit communities.
Is ZIP 28594 a Good Place to Live?
Whether ZIP code 28594 in Emerald Isle, NC is right for you depends on your priorities. Here's a balanced look:
Pros
- ✓Peaceful environment with outdoor space
- ✓Strong economic stability
- ✓High-value, appreciating properties
Cons
- ⚠Limited access to urban amenities
The Bottom Line
ZIP code 28594 is well-suited for individuals and families who value tranquility, nature, and a tight-knit community. Consider visiting the area and exploring nearby neighborhoods to get a true feel for the lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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