Emerald Isle, NC vs Pine Knoll Shores, NC

Emerald Isle, NC and Pine Knoll Shores, NC have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.6% difference in their overall index. Emerald Isle scores 130 while Pine Knoll Shores scores 135 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Emerald Isle is $1,688/month compared to $1,792/month in Pine Knoll Shores — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Emerald Isle is more affordable at $563,600 median vs $583,900.

Median household income in Emerald Isle is $89,432 compared to $108,393 in Pine Knoll Shores (-17.5%). While Pine Knoll Shores is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Emerald Isle spend roughly 22.6% of their income on rent, more than the 19.8% in Pine Knoll Shores.