Onslow County Real Estate | Jacksonville, Camp Lejeune & Coastal NC
Last updated: February 27, 2026
Population
~214,000 (2023)
County Seat
Jacksonville
Major Employer
Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base
Coastal Access
Topsail Island, New River, Intracoastal Waterway
Onslow County is the heart of coastal North Carolina's military real estate market and one of the fastest-growing regions in the state. Home to Jacksonville — North Carolina's 14th-largest city — and Camp Lejeune, the county attracts thousands of military families on PCS orders each year, along with retirees, investors, and buyers seeking affordable coastal living.
Living in Onslow County
The county spans from Jacksonville inland to Topsail Island on the coast, offering a mix of urban convenience, suburban neighborhoods, and beach-town character. Sneads Ferry has emerged as a popular choice for Marines and sailors who want coastal access and shorter commutes via Highway 172 to Camp Lejeune and MARSOC Stone Bay. Swansboro delivers a charming waterfront downtown and strong schools. Surf City and Topsail Beach anchor the barrier island lifestyle.
Families benefit from Onslow County Schools — including magnet programs in technology, STEAM, and international studies — plus youth athletics, parks, and community events. Jacksonville offers shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment close to base.
Real Estate in Onslow County
Property types range from starter homes and townhomes in Jacksonville to waterfront estates on Topsail Island. Median prices tend to be lower than Wilmington or the Crystal Coast, making Onslow attractive for first-time buyers and military families working within BAH limits. Flood zones vary by location; coastal and sound-side properties may require elevation certificates and flood insurance. Our team specializes in military relocation, coastal property analysis, and flood zone guidance.
Explore Our Onslow County Communities
- Jacksonville — County seat, Camp Lejeune hub, fastest-growing city
- Sneads Ferry — Coastal living, back-gate commute, waterfront communities
- Swansboro — Historic waterfront, White Oak River, family-friendly
- Topsail Island — North Topsail Beach, Surf City, Topsail Beach
- Richlands — Inland growth, schools, affordability
Contact Salt & Soil Realty for personalized market insights and tours across Onslow County.
Cities & Communities
- Jacksonville4 neighborhoods
- Swansboro
- Surf City
- Richlands
- Sneads Ferry
- Holly Ridge
- North Topsail Beach
- Topsail Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Onslow County is home to Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station New River, and MARSOC Stone Bay. Jacksonville and surrounding communities like Sneads Ferry offer BAH-friendly housing, PCS-savvy agents, and proximity to base — with many neighborhoods minutes from the back gate.
Topsail Island (North Topsail Beach, Surf City, Topsail Beach) offers oceanfront and sound-side living. Sneads Ferry provides New River and Intracoastal access. Swansboro is known for the White Oak River and waterfront downtown. Jacksonville has New River Estates and coastal communities.
Onslow County Schools (OCS) operates PK-12 public schools across the county, including magnet programs. Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River are served by Department of Defense schools. Northwoods, Jacksonville Commons, and Richlands zones are popular with families.