Calabash Homes for Sale
Discover Waterfront & Riverfront Properties in the Seafood Capital of the World

Welcome to Calabash, NC โ The Seafood Capital of the World
Calabash offers an affordable gateway to coastal retirement living in a charming fishing village turned retiree haven. Known globally as the "Seafood Capital of the World" for its famous Calabash-style fried seafood, this quaint town sits along the Calabash River and Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), providing easy boating access and stunning waterfront views. With no high-rises and a relaxed, small-town vibe, Calabash is perfect for those seeking riverfront homes, golf nearby, and fresh seafood dining without the crowds of bigger beaches. Whether you're retiring from up north or buying a second home, Calabash delivers that authentic North Carolina coastal lifestyle with low taxes and proximity to everything.
History and Community of Calabash

Originally a Native American settlement and later a fishing village in the 1700s, Calabash boomed in the mid-20th century with its unique fried seafood methodโlightly battered and fried to perfection, drawing celebrities like Frank Sinatra and locals alike. Incorporated in 1973, the town has grown into a retiree-friendly community with a year-round population of around 2,200 (median age ~60โideal for active adults), swelling with seasonal visitors. Famous for its Calabash-style restaurants started by families like the Coleman and Beck, it's a hidden gem in Brunswick County with a strong sense of community and southern hospitality.
The Calabash River and Waterfrontโhome to marinas, fishing charters, and Callahan's Nautical Gifts, one of the largest nautical stores in the Southeast.
- Population: ~2,400
- Proximity: ~25 minutes to Myrtle Beach SC (entertainment, shopping, airport MYR), ~50 minutes to Wilmington NC (historic downtown, airport ILM, major healthcare like Novant Health). Close to beaches like Sunset Beach (5 min) and Ocean Isle Beach (10 min).
Life in Calabash: Waterfront Living and Small-Town Charm
Life in Calabash revolves around the waterโriverfront homes with private docks for boating on the Calabash River and ICW, perfect for fishing, crabbing, or sunset cruises. The town offers a mix of affordable mainland properties, waterfront condos, and newer communities with easy access to championship golf like Crow Creek Golf Club or Thistle Golf Estates nearby. Enjoy world-famous Calabash-style seafood at spots like The Boundary House or Oyster Rock, local festivals like the Calabash Christmas Tree Lighting and Summer Concert Series, kayaking, biking trails, and proximity to state parks like Brunswick Nature Park. It's a peaceful retirement spot with low crime, friendly neighbors, mild year-round weather (average highs 60ยฐF winter, 85ยฐF summer), and no big-city hustleโideal for active adults who love boating, golf, and fresh coastal cuisine.
Taxes (Very Retiree-Friendly): Brunswick County rate: 34.20 cents per $100 valuation. Calabash town adds approximately 15 cents per $100 (combined ~49.20 cents)โsignificantly lower than northern states, helping stretch retirement budgets.
Other Fun Facts: Calabash is home to the world's largest frying pan (a roadside attraction), annual seafood festivals drawing thousands, and easy day trips to attractions like Brookgreen Gardens (sculpture garden, 20 min) or the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (40 min). With its location on the NC/SC border, residents enjoy the best of both states' perks.
Calabash Real Estate Market
The Calabash real estate market remains strong and affordable, with a median home price of ~$350Kโ$450K (late 2025 data), making it one of the best values in Brunswick County for waterfront properties. Riverfront and ICW homes with docks often range $500Kโ$800K+, while mainland single-family homes and condos start ~$250Kโ$400K. Demand is high for retirement and second homes, driven by low inventory and relocations from northern states, with quick sales for well-priced waterfront lots. Popular types include custom builds on the Calabash River, golf-view homes, and low-maintenance patio propertiesโgreat for active adults seeking boating and coastal access without premium beachfront prices.
Ready to Find Your Calabash Dream Home?
As your local Brunswick County coastal expert, Suzanne Polino can guide you to waterfront gems, riverfront retreats, or hidden listings in Calabash.
Suzanne Polino | Retire Coastal NC
Phone: 910-477-1378
Email: Suzy@SuzySellsNC.com
Contact Me Today for a No-Pressure Strategy Conversation
Current Calabash Homes for Sale
$834,000
Active
9421 Old Salem Way NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 5 Baths 2,411 SqFt 0.41 Acres
$449,900
Active
9154 Village Lake Drive SW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 2,593 SqFt 0.16 Acres
$385,000
Active
767 Heathers Glen Lane NW Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,950 SqFt 0.25 Acres
$365,000
Active
9056 Island Shore Avenue Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 1,750 SqFt 0.2 Acres
$329,900
Pending
3078 Crescent Lake Drive Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 2 Baths 2,032 SqFt 0.24 Acres
$998,000
Active
1976 Indigo Cove Way Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 3 Baths 2,741 SqFt 0.16 Acres
$960,000
Active
2016 Manor Parc Drive Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 3 Baths 2,036 SqFt 0.27 Acres
$959,900
Active
9447 Old Salem Way NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 3 Baths 3,850 SqFt 0.35 Acres
$949,900
Active
9469 Old Salem Way NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 3 Baths 3,976 SqFt 0.31 Acres
$930,000
Active Under Contract
1302 Forest Reserve Court SW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 2,995 SqFt 0.68 Acres
$917,900
Pending
2002 Indigo Cove Way Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 3,161 SqFt 0.14 Acres
$907,685
Active
1958 Indigo Cove Way Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 3 Baths 2,578 SqFt 0.12 Acres
$899,000
Active
9442 Old Salem Way NW Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 5 Baths 3,286 SqFt 0.64 Acres
$899,000
Active
376 Autumn Pheasant Loop NW Calabash, North Carolina
3 Beds 4 Baths 3,677 SqFt 0.35 Acres
$885,000
Active Under Contract
444 Crow Creek Drive NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 2,956 SqFt 0.44 Acres
$869,000
Active
1308 Harbour Watch SW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 3,713 SqFt 0.51 Acres
$850,000
Pending
550 Glenburnie Street NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 3,800 SqFt 0.34 Acres
$850,000
Active
503 Crow Creek Drive NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 5 Baths 3,025 SqFt 0.5 Acres
$849,999
Active
550 Glenburnie Street NW Calabash, North Carolina
4 Beds 4 Baths 3,733 SqFt 0.34 Acres
$849,900
Active
8948 Chesterfield Drive NW Calabash, North Carolina
5 Beds 4 Baths 3,139 SqFt 0.39 Acres
$849,900
Active
8940 Chesterfield Drive NW Calabash, North Carolina
5 Beds 4 Baths 3,139 SqFt 0.4 Acres