Roanoke Island Real Estate

Roanoke Island is situated just over the Nags Head causeway between the outer most beaches of the Outer Banks and the Dare County mainland.  There are really only two towns that make up the island.  Manteo, the more well known of the two, is a quaint town with a historic waterfront where you'll find local gift shops, restaurants, and beautiful homes nestled along the waterfront.  According to the 2010 census, Manteo has 1,432 full time residents, up nearly 21% from the 2000 census.  Manteo is one of the few communities in the Outer Banks that has a town center, and thus its home to regular festivals and farmers markets.  In fact every Friday from April to December, Manteo has a "First Friday" where they close the streets and locals and visitors alike enjoy  live music and fun-filled family activities.  Saturday's bring the local farmers market, with fresh produce, baked goods, and local vendors showing their creations.  And throughout the season, there will be art shows and music festivals.  While there are a few communities in Manteo geared towards second homes, most of the town is geared towards full-time residents while still being in close proximity to the gorgeous beaches of the OBX.

Wanchese, on the southern end of the island, is more rustic and is most known for being a fishing village.  As you turn left over the Manteo/Nags Head causeway, you'll travel just 4 miles to get to Wanchese, but it feels miles from what most people think of as the Outer Banks.  According to the 2010 census, Wanchese has a population of 1,642, up 8% from the 2000 census.  Wanchese is believed to be one of the first fishing villages in the OBX and it has remained true to its roots.  It's home to the NC Seafood Industrial Park, several boat builders including Bayliss, and a fleet of commercial fishing vessels and seafood dealers.