When it comes to researching the areas of coastal North Carolina for relocation, many people consider several spots on the coast and just a little bit inland from the coast. When considering Sunset Beach, many homebuyers also consider Calabash and wonder which area might be best for them. The two towns sit right next to each other in southern Brunswick County. Calabash has a mainland location. Sunset Beach is predominantly located on a quiet barrier island with a few spots, occupying the mainland as well.
Calabash or Sunset Beach? Which Should You Choose?
A quick overview of each area
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a laid-back, low-density coastal community popular for its very wide, uncrowded, gorgeous sandy beaches. Compared to nearby popular beach towns like Myrtle Beach. It is much quieter and more residential. It is a true, unspoiled natural feeling coastal area with just a bit of modern amenities sprinkled in.
Calabash
Calabash is a mainland town that has become popular for its seafood scene. Some have nicknamed the area the seafood capital of the world. Its coastal scene is not without fresh shrimp boats, and there is plenty to enjoy on the riverfront. It provides more local amenities and a more dense suburban atmosphere.
Both areas have relaxed, water, front lifestyle, vibes, and friendly people with proximity to larger coastal areas of North Carolina.
Cost of living and housing
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach has higher housing prices because there are many properties right on the beach, and the island makes everything feel a little more upscale and desirable when it comes to waterfront properties. Sunset Beach is a desirable beach spot as it is still a lower cost of living than other coastal spots. The overall cost of living for other expenses is just slightly below the national average.
Calabash
Calabash has more affordable housing compared to Sunset Beach, but it does not have those upscale coastal beachfront homes that many people have always had on their bucket list. The cost of living in Calabash is about 14% below the national average.
Amenities/daily life/things to do
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is quieter, more serene, and focused on the natural and spoiled beauty of the barrier island and coastal areas. There are some fun spots in Sunset Beach. It is not completely void of anything to do. There is a small collection of local shops and some restaurants. This makes it easy to frequently visit spots and get to know the people who work there, as well as other people who come in frequently. Sunset Beach is praised for its unspoiled beach and peaceful vibes that trump everything when it comes to activities in the town. It is a true low-key living focused.
Calabash
There are more restaurants located in Calabash, especially those popular, famous seafood spots mentioned earlier. There are some shopping and everyday services in the area as well. However, it will take you a little bit longer to access the beach when living in Calabash as compared to in Sunset Beach. It is not directly on the ocean, but it is just a short drive away.
Both areas have their pros and cons, and the decision of where to settle depends on what your preferences are. Choosing Sunset Beach over Calabash means choosing unspoiled, beautiful beaches and getting to benefit from being as close to the most beautiful coastal spot in North Carolina as possible
If you think Sunset Beach is the ideal North Carolina coastal location for you, the team at Sunset Beach and Beyond is here to help you find the best home that fits you and your needs. You want an experienced Sunset Beach real estate agent at your side who knows the details of searching for homes in the right places in Sunset Beach to help you find exactly what you are looking for.
“Amy and I have bought and sold four properties in the past twelve years. Both of you are the best realtors we have ever dealt with. Amy and I both felt we could trust you to look out for our interest. The level of service you provided was outstanding, from taking the trash out, helping the buyer with inspecting the irrigation system, dealing with our tenants, always being there if we needed to ask a question, providing constant updates on the market and always keeping us informed on the sale of our house. I think your next venture should be training other realtors, because both of you have mastered the art of providing excellent service. I will be sure to recommend the Frank and Karen team to anybody looking for a trust worthy, knowledgeable and top performing realtor. It was a pleasure working with both of you.” Sunset Beach and Beyond testimonial