Living Here

We can’t take credit for the deep blue skies and the spectacular waterways that are prevalent throughout Craven County. They were here long before the people arrived. We can, however, brag about the community of people who live and work here. We have a rich history dating back to Colonial times where New Bern served as the first state Capital, where Caleb Bradham invented Pepsi Cola, where the Marine Corps established roots in Cherry Point and Havelock, where Babe Ruth spent his time in the hunting field when not on the baseball field, and where a community of proud, hard working and compassionate people were born. Fast forward more than 300 years and we are still a community of proud, hard working and compassionate people who appreciate all that Craven County has to offer.

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Craven County Highlights:
  • 774 square miles (66 square miles of waterways)
  • Easy access to the Intercoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean
  • 155,000 acres of Croatan National Forest, including 40 miles of streams and 4,300 acres of lakes
  • Year-round opportunities for hiking, camping, hunting, boating, paddleboarding and fishing
  • Vibrant arts community with music, dance, theater, history and creative arts
  • Higher level education institutions including Craven Community College, Mount Olive College and NC State University

Our community is extremely diverse; a good mix of young families and retirees, professional business owners and skilled trade persons, active citizens and those who enjoy simple, easy living. We enjoy a moderate climate 12 months a year, have access to quality health care, solid education opportunities and a multitude of things to do. We also have a relatively low tax rate, available waterfront properties and a thriving and growing economy.

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