A barrier island community in Brunswick County, Holden Beach has long been known for its wide beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and quieter feel. The island’s biggest draw is that there is very little commercial development. You won’t find big-box stores and high-rises here.
While Holden Beach is a popular beach vacation destination, living at the beach is a little different from visiting for a week. If you’re considering a permanent move, buying a second home, or eventually moving closer to the coast, it helps to understand what you’ll actually spend day to day. Here’s a closer look at the typical costs to keep in mind when thinking about life on Holden Beach.
Is Holden Beach, NC, Expensive to Live In?
The short answer is that housing can make Holden Beach considerably more expensive than many nearby mainland communities. However, costs like utilities, groceries, and transportation are more in line with the state and national average. For example, PayScale currently places Holden Beach’s overall cost of living 14% above the national average, with housing standing out as the largest difference.
Housing Costs in Holden Beach
For most people considering a move to Holden Beach, housing is at the top of the list. You’ll find a variety of housing options ranging from small cottages and older beach homes to large, luxury oceanfront properties. According to Realtor.com, the median listing price in Holden Beach is about $949,450, and the median sold price is approximately $800,250. Prices will fluctuate significantly based on the home’s size, condition, location, water views, rental potential, and distance from the beach. The Holden Beach housing market reflects the premium that comes with living on the coast. Nearby mainland communities like Shallotte and Supply have a vastly different housing market, offering potential buyers and renters more options if they are set on living by the water. For many, being a short drive to the beach is a worthwhile trade-off for having more space and a different price point.
If you’re interested in seeing what’s currently available, take a look at our Holden Beach real estate listings.
Other Costs to Consider
While housing is one of the main considerations, the rest of your monthly budget matters, too. Fortunately, many of these costs are similar to what you’d encounter elsewhere in Brunswick County. It’ll just take a little more planning when it comes to running errands, grocery shopping, work, and other important day-to-day activities.
Grocery and Food Costs
There are places to pick up groceries and everyday essentials around Holden Beach, but many residents make regular trips to the mainland for larger grocery runs and shopping. According to Payscale, groceries are 2% lower than the national average.
Utilities
Utility costs vary from household to household. Your home’s size, age, insulation, HVAC system, and whether the property is occupied year-round can make a noticeable difference. Second-home owners may have a different utility profile than full-time residents, while larger beach homes can naturally cost more to heat and cool. You’ll also want to think about the maintenance it takes to keep your home in good shape. Salt air, wind, moisture, and storms can be harder on exterior materials and mechanical equipment than they are farther inland.
Transportation Costs
Having a car is essential if you plan to move to Holden Beach, as there is no public transportation. The island has a few small markets, restaurants, and shops, but you’ll need to drive off the island for larger grocery trips, doctor visits, work, shopping, etc. Don’t forget to factor in gas, vehicle maintenance, registration, and insurance into your budget as well.
Taxes and Insurance
If you’re seriously considering buying a home in Holden Beach, do a deep dive into the taxes and insurance before making an offer.
Property Taxes
Your property tax bill depends on more than the purchase price of your home. Assessed value, applicable rates, and any additional fees or districts affecting the property can all matter.
Homeowners Insurance
Insurance is another expense where coastal living can look different from living inland. A homeowners policy may cover certain risks such as windstorm, hail, fire, theft, and liability, but coverage varies by policy. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Some lenders, however, may require flood insurance in Holden Beach if a property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Is Living in Holden Beach Worth the Cost?
That truly is up to you! For some people, the cost of living on the coast is more than the numbers on a monthly budget. It’s about spending your days finding shells and walking on the beach, fishing from the pier, and enjoying a quieter pace of life. You understand that there are some trade-offs you’ll have to accept, like driving across the bridge for groceries and maintaining a home in a salt-air environment. For many, it’s absolutely worth it to be living seaside.
Experience Holden Beach for Yourself
The best way to find out if Holden Beach is the place for you is to spend some time on the island! Visit throughout the year to experience Holden Beach in different seasons, and drive different routes to see what running everyday errands could look like. You’ll get a feel for island living and what your daily routine might actually look like.
Hobbs Realty has been part of the Holden Beach community since 1977, and our local team has spent generations getting to know the island, its homes, and the people who love coming back year after year. Connect with our team to get started on your Holden Beach home-buying journey.