For years, Holly Ridge was known mostly as the place you passed through on US 17 on the way to Topsail Island. Today the small Onslow County town has a story of its own: a dramatic World War II history, a growing population and new civic plans. If you want to be near the Topsail beaches and the Pender County line without paying island prices, here is what to know about living in Holly Ridge, NC.
Holly Ridge at a Glance
Holly Ridge sits in southeastern Onslow County along US 17, near its intersection with NC 50, which leads toward Surf City and Topsail Island. The 2020 census counted 4,171 residents, and the town covers about 4.2 square miles, according to Census figures reported by Wikipedia.
That location puts Holly Ridge within easy reach of Surf City, Sneads Ferry, Hampstead and Jacksonville, making it a practical choice for beach lovers, commuters and military families.
A Town Shaped by Camp Davis
Holly Ridge’s history is unusual. According to the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Camp Davis historical marker entry:
- In December 1940, the War Department announced it would build an installation near Holly Ridge, then a community of just 28 people.
- More than 22,000 people were working at the height of construction. By May 1941, Camp Davis had 978 buildings, 32 miles of paved streets and an airfield.
- By 1943, Holly Ridge’s population had reached 110,000.
- Camp Davis served primarily as an Army coast artillery training center, with antiaircraft firing ranges away from the main base, including at Fort Fisher. Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) flew planes that towed targets for antiaircraft training.
- The camp closed in 1944. After the war, the site hosted a secret missile test program known as “Operation Bumblebee.”
The state historical marker for Camp Davis stands on US 17 in Holly Ridge, a reminder of how quickly this corner of the coast once changed.
What’s New: A Future Civic Center
In October, the town closed a $4.5 million deal to buy the former J&J Snack Foods property at 312 Sound Road, Public Radio East reported. The purchase included a $900,000 down payment, with the rest financed, and officials said no property tax increases are planned to cover the cost. The town is considering converting the building into a civic center that could consolidate municipal offices, expand indoor recreation and add community gathering space. Final plans depend on engineering studies and public input.
Community Life
The Town of Holly Ridge website lists a busy calendar of community activities, including pickleball, yoga and mahjong open play, along with active committees such as Beautification, Branding and Marketing, and Bee City USA. The town site also highlights Liberty Fountain and Morris Landing, a scenic waterfront spot near town.
For beach days, Surf City and Topsail Island are a short drive away. Our Surf City town guide and Topsail Island November events guide cover what’s nearby.
Schools
Holly Ridge is served by Onslow County Schools. Dixon Elementary School and Dixon High School both have Holly Ridge addresses, and Dixon Middle School is in nearby Sneads Ferry, according to the schools’ websites. Assignments depend on address, so confirm with the district for any specific home.
Homes in Holly Ridge
Buyers often look at Holly Ridge for newer subdivisions and mainland homes that can cost less than island property while keeping the beach close. Before you buy:
- Check flood zones and insurance. Even mainland homes can be affected. Get quotes early; our post on hurricane and wind deductibles explains a cost many coastal buyers overlook.
- Know the county. Holly Ridge is in Onslow County, not Pender, so taxes, schools and services differ from nearby Surf City’s mainland and Hampstead.
- Review HOA rules in newer neighborhoods, including fees, rental limits and architectural guidelines.
- Military buyers may want to compare VA loan options; see our VA home loan guide.
FAQ: Living in Holly Ridge, NC
What county is Holly Ridge in?
Onslow County, near the Pender County line and Topsail Island.
How many people live in Holly Ridge?
The 2020 census counted 4,171 residents.
What was Camp Davis?
A World War II Army coast artillery training center that opened in 1941 and closed in 1944, according to the state historical marker program.
See If Holly Ridge Fits Your Plans
Holly Ridge offers history, growth and quick beach access in one small town. Connect with Aspyre Collective to compare Holly Ridge with Surf City, Sneads Ferry and Hampstead.
