North Beach by the Numbers: A Recap

In our quarterly newsletter and on our website, we regularly share data and facts that highlight the growth, challenges, and opportunities facing North Beach. Like many vacation destinations, the beauty and uniqueness of our area have brought increasing popularity and economic benefits, along with the pressures that come with growth.

How do we preserve what we love while still sharing it with the thousands of visitors who want to experience it? We hope these facts and trends help encourage thoughtful discussion and action within the community, county, and state.

We previously shared the results of the NC State 2025 Traffic and Economic Contribution Study, and the infographic below provides a quick visual summary of some of the key findings and related community data. Together, these numbers highlight both the economic importance of the 4x4 beaches and the need to balance growth, infrastructure, conservation, and community preservation. If you have not viewed the NC State presentation, you can view it here.

The proposed 2026–2027 Currituck County operating budget was also recently released and can be found here.

Number of New Construction Building Permits Issued (can be viewed here): 2024: 38 2025: 39 2026 year to date (May 1): 10

As North Beach continues to grow in popularity, it is more important than ever that we make informed, thoughtful decisions about its future. By understanding the data and staying engaged, we can help preserve the unique character, natural beauty, and sense of community that make the Last 12 Miles so special—for both residents and future generations to enjoy.