Living in Elm City NC
A small railroad town on US 301 between Wilson and Rocky Mount, known for its Victorian cottages and shade trees.
Elm City is a small Wilson County town, with a small part in Nash County, just off I-95 and about 15 minutes from both Wilson and Rocky Mount. Its downtown storefronts and historic homes date back more than 100 years.
Get the Buyer GuideWhat’s My Home Worth?Elm City Housing Market
Homes sold with a Elm City address over the last 12 months, compared with the 12 months before.
Source: Hive MLS, residential sales, Nov 5, 2025 to Nov 4, 2026 compared with Nov 5, 2024 to Nov 4, 2025. Active listings as of Nov 4, 2026. Town numbers use the city on the listing address, so they include some homes just outside town limits. Months of supply = homes for sale divided by average monthly sales. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
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What Elm City Is Like
Elm City was laid out on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad in the early 1870s and incorporated in 1873 as Toisnot, named for a nearby swamp. It was later renamed Elm City for its shade trees.
Much of downtown was rebuilt in brick after an 1884 fire, and many of those turn-of-the-century storefronts are still standing. The town celebrated its 150th birthday in 2023, and the historic depot is rented out for events.
Town website: elmcitync.com
Local Favorites
- Aggie’s Hot Subs: Casual sub shop for hot sandwiches on Branch Street
- Boogie’s Turkey BBQ: Barbecue spot known for turkey barbecue on Elm City Road South
Homes in Elm City
The Elm City Municipal Historic District, on the National Register since 1986, is mostly one-story Victorian cottages from about 1875 to 1910. Many have the “Elm City porch,” a wraparound porch with projecting gables found in and around Elm City. You’ll also find two-story Victorians, Colonial Revival homes and bungalows.
Getting Around Elm City
US 301 runs through town, and I-95 is a few minutes west. The US 264 interchange with I-95 near Wilson is a short drive south.
Approximate drive times:
- Wilson: about 15 minutes
- Rocky Mount: about 15 minutes
- Raleigh: about 55 minutes
- RDU Airport: about 1 hour 5 minutes
Getting Outside
Elm City has three town parks: Spivey Park, Wilson Street Park and Parker Street Extension Park. Nash County’s Miracle Park at Coopers is nearby on Joyner Road and hosts Nash County Community Day in April.
Nearby Towns
Elm City Questions
What county is Elm City, NC in?
Elm City is in Wilson County, North Carolina, with a small part in Nash County. Main ZIP code: 27822.
How far is Elm City, NC from Raleigh?
About 55 minutes by car, depending on traffic and where you’re headed.
What kinds of homes are in Elm City, NC?
The Elm City Municipal Historic District, on the National Register since 1986, is mostly one-story Victorian cottages from about 1875 to 1910. Many have the “Elm City porch,” a wraparound porch with projecting gables found in and around Elm City. You’ll also find two-story Victorians, Colonial Revival homes and bungalows.
What is there to do in Elm City, NC?
Walk the historic district and downtown, use the town parks, or head 15 minutes to Wilson or Rocky Mount for more shopping and dining.
How do I find out about schools in Elm City, NC?
School assignments can change, so verify school assignment for any address with the school district.
Let’s Talk About Elm City
Call or text me and I’ll tell you what homes are going for and what’s on the market right now.
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