Havelock is the most populous city in Craven, Pamlico, or Carteret County, with an official population listed in the 2010 U.S. census of 20,735. 

The “Gateway City” continues to be one of the fastest growing urban areas of the state. 

Although the area was among the first settled in North Carolina, the official population in 1950 was 100. The population in 1965 was about 3,500. Many of the city’s current residents are affiliated with the adjacent Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station. 

The housing boom of the late 70’s and early 80’s has moderated and real estate prices for houses and apartments are very good.  The primary focus of growth in the real estate sector is currently waterfront developments along the Neuse River and the large local creeks. 

The majority of homes within the city and its extraterritorial area are less than 10 years old; many are brand new as developers hustle to keep up with demand. With subdivisions called Wolfcreek, Stonebridge, Foxcroft, Hunters Landing, Tucker Creek and others under active construction and several more on the drawing board, residential building continues to be one of the leading economic activities within the city. 

During the past few years, three full-fledged shopping centers have been completed. This does not include the massive Marine Corps Exchange complex on the air station, one of the largest shopping centers within 50 miles. The base’s retail center boasts a huge PX, a large modern grocery store, a beauty shop, flower shop, photo studio and lab, a video store and even a fast food restaurants. 

A recent survey indicated that one of the largest groups of residents in Havelock has been here less than two years. The median age, according to the 2010 census, is 23.5. 

Havelock provides a home for nearly every race and creed known to the world. Because of Cherry Point, the city is an international crossroads. Filipinos, Koreans, Japanese, Indians and Hispanics all have found a home here.