Ever notice a Kitty Hawk listing that says it’s “between the highways” and wonder what that really means? If you are buying from out of town, that phrase can feel vague. In this guide, you will learn the plain meaning, which roads it usually refers to, how to confirm the exact spot on a map, and what to weigh for flood risk, insurance, utilities, zoning, and resale. Let’s dive in.
What it means locally
When locals say a home is between the highways, they are describing property on the barrier island that sits inland from the oceanfront but still within easy reach of beaches, shops, and services. It is a colloquial tag used in conversation and listings, not a legal boundary. The exact band can vary by speaker or listing, so treat it as a general location cue rather than a precise map line.
Which highways in Kitty Hawk
NC-12 and US-158
In Kitty Hawk, “the highways” commonly refers to two primary routes that serve the Outer Banks:
- NC-12 (often called North Croatan Highway or Coastal Highway), which runs north-south along the island.
- US-158, the main approach from the mainland that also connects through parts of the Outer Banks.
Some people also reference familiar local thoroughfares like Virginia Dare Trail, Kitty Hawk Road, or Elizabeth Avenue when describing location context. The goal is to signal that the home sits in the island’s inland band with good access to the major corridors.
Why meaning varies
There is no townwide, official boundary for “between the highways.” Some agents use it narrowly, others more loosely to mean “not oceanfront.” Always confirm the exact location for any specific property rather than relying on the phrase alone.
Confirm exact location
Step-by-step map checks
Use these steps to pin down what a listing means and where the home truly sits:
- Ask the listing agent for a simple map or parcel ID showing the property relative to NC-12 and US-158.
- Look up the parcel in the Dare County GIS or parcel viewer to verify parcel lines, the street name, and nearby roads.
- Review the MLS map to confirm neighborhood context and distances to the beach and the highways.
- Check Town of Kitty Hawk planning and zoning maps for official road names and the property’s zoning district.
- Plug the address into Google Maps or OpenStreetMap to see which roads it is actually between and the proximity to amenities.
Data layers to review
- County parcel map and street centerlines
- Zoning district and applicable setbacks
- FEMA flood zone and Base Flood Elevation
- Elevation/topography or an elevation certificate
- MLS neighborhood tags and map overlays
Buyer considerations
Flood zones and insurance
Being away from direct ocean wave action does not remove flood exposure on a barrier island. Check FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps for the flood zone and BFE, and ask for any available elevation certificate. Get preliminary flood insurance quotes early so premiums are not a surprise.
Storm and evacuation
Storm surge and wind risk still apply between the highways. Review Dare County hurricane evacuation guidance and note which route you would use in an emergency. Homes with straightforward access to NC-12 or US-158 can simplify evacuation planning.
Utilities and septic
Confirm whether the home is on public water and sewer or a private well and septic system. Septic capacity and condition can affect financing and renovation plans. Check with Dare County Health Department records for septic permits and past inspections where available.
Zoning and building rules
Review Town of Kitty Hawk zoning and setback requirements before planning additions or rebuilds. Coastal and dune protection rules may shape what is allowed on a lot. Permit history can also clarify prior improvements and constraints.
Access and amenities
Between-the-highways locations often strike a balance: quicker drives to shopping and services, with an easy beach commute, but not the direct oceanfront views. Confirm exact distances to the beach access, groceries, and key services to match your lifestyle.
Resale and marketability
Oceanfront homes typically command higher prices, while inland value hinges on elevation, access, and lot and home features. Proximity to major roadways can add convenience but may introduce traffic or noise considerations. Weigh the trade-offs for long-term enjoyment and resale.
Seller tips
Use the phrase clearly
If you describe your home as “between the highways,” pair it with objective details. Add a simple map, note exact distances to beach accesses and main roads, and include the names NC-12 and US-158. Clear, verifiable information builds buyer confidence.
Disclose risk and access
Where possible, include the FEMA flood zone, BFE, any elevation certificate, and relevant permits or septic documents. Buyers appreciate transparency on utilities, zoning, and emergency access. These details can set your listing apart and reduce back-and-forth.
Quick checklist
- Confirm parcel location in Dare County GIS
- Note distances to NC-12, US-158, and the nearest beach access
- Document flood zone, BFE, and elevation certificate if available
- Verify utilities and septic status with county records
- Review zoning, setbacks, and any coastal restrictions
- Check evacuation route and emergency access
- Get insurance quotes and factor premiums into your budget
Buying or selling in Kitty Hawk’s “between the highways” band is all about clarity. When you pair this local phrase with maps, flood and elevation data, zoning details, and practical access info, you can make a confident decision. If you are weighing options in Kitty Hawk or nearby Corolla, Duck, or Southern Shores, our founder-led team can help you verify the details, coordinate remote tours, and align lifestyle or investment goals with the right property.
Ready for local, white-glove guidance backed by decades of Outer Banks experience? Contact Corolla Real Estate to get answers, on-the-ground support, and a plan that fits your next move.
FAQs
In Kitty Hawk, does “between the highways” mean safer from storms?
- Not necessarily; inland parcels may avoid direct ocean wave impact but can still face storm surge, wind, and flooding, so confirm FEMA flood zones and elevation.
In Kitty Hawk, which roads does “between the highways” usually reference?
- It commonly points to the inland area between NC-12 and US-158, though usage varies; always confirm the specific location on a map.
For Kitty Hawk buyers, how can I verify a listing’s exact location?
- Ask for a map or parcel ID, check Dare County GIS and MLS maps, and review Town of Kitty Hawk zoning plus Google Maps or OpenStreetMap.
For homes between the highways, will prices be lower than oceanfront?
- Generally yes; oceanfront commands a premium, while inland pricing reflects elevation, access, lot size, and home features.
For Kitty Hawk purchases, should I worry about septic versus sewer?
- Yes; confirm utility type, and check county health records for septic permits and capacity since it can affect financing and renovations.
For Kitty Hawk sellers, how should I use this phrase in my listing?
- Use it with specifics: include a simple map, name NC-12 and US-158, note distances to the beach and services, and disclose flood zone and utilities.
