If you’re considering moving to Tarboro, NC, the Highway 64 neighborhood stands out as a blend of small-town comfort and everyday convenience. This area—centered along Western Blvd/US-64 and including side streets like Howard Ave, Faith Dr, and Colonial Ave—offers something for nearly everyone, whether you’re a young professional, starting a family, or looking for a welcoming place to retire. Here’s what it’s really like to call the Highway 64 corridor home, from someone who knows it well.
A Tight-Knit Community Vibe
The Highway 64 neighborhood exudes a friendly, laid-back spirit. Neighbors are often on first-name terms, and you’ll frequently spot folks waving from their front porches. The community represents a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, all united by a shared pride in keeping the area inviting and neighborly.
- Weekend cookouts and block get-togethers are common.
- Many residents take part in local events, whether at the Golden Leaf Commons or Tarboro’s Main Street festivals just a short drive away.
- Newcomers are usually greeted with warmth; don’t be surprised if someone brings over a welcome pie or offers tips on the best spots around town.
Types of Housing
Along the Highway 64 corridor, you’ll find a variety of housing options to fit most budgets and lifestyles:
- Well-maintained single-family homes dating from the 1960s to early 2000s dominate the area. Ranch-style and traditional layouts are popular, with generous lawns and mature shade trees.
- Some smaller apartment complexes and duplexes are nestled off side streets like Speight Ave, ideal for renters or those seeking lower maintenance.
- There are several mobile home parks nearby, providing affordable living with easy access to amenities.
- Newer developments can be spotted further west toward Kingsboro Rd, catering to those seeking modern amenities and larger lots.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy starter home or something with room to grow, chances are you’ll find it here.
Walkability and Day-to-Day Living
Walkability is decent for a suburban neighborhood, especially along the quieter residential streets. While Western Blvd itself is busy, you’ll find safer, shaded sidewalks on streets like Howard Ave and Colonial Ave:
- Kids ride bikes and play in front yards, and dog walkers are a familiar sight every evening.
- Several gas stations, convenience stores, and local favorites like Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries are within a quick walk or bike ride.
- Most errands will require a car, but essentials are just a couple of minutes away, including banks, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to the Highway 64 neighborhood for its access to solid schools and kid-friendly amenities:
- Stocks Elementary School and Tarboro High School are both within a short drive, and families appreciate the easy morning drop-offs.
- Daycares, preschools, and afterschool programs operate in and around the neighborhood, making life easier for working parents.
- The area feels safe for families—parents frequently chat by the curb as kids head off to catch the bus.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of the reasons residents love living near Highway 64 is the access to outdoor recreation:
- Indian Lake Park is a local treasure, about 5 minutes away on Howard Ave—offering a walking trail, fishing spots, picnic tables, and playgrounds shaded by pines.
- The nearby Tar River Trail, accessible just beyond the neighborhood, is a haven for joggers, birdwatchers, and cyclists.
- Smaller neighborhood parks, like those on Meadowbrook Rd, offer quiet escapes for reading, dog walking, or playdates away from busy roads.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Most residents describe the Highway 64 neighborhood as safe and comfortable:
- The area benefits from regular patrols by the Tarboro Police Department, and it lacks the high traffic and congestion that can cause safety concerns in larger cities.
- Neighbors keep an eye out for each other, and community watch groups are active in several pockets of the neighborhood.
- The streets are well-lit; it’s common to see joggers and families out even after dark, which speaks to the sense of security locals feel here.
Proximity to Downtown, Employers, and Everyday Needs
One of Highway 64’s biggest advantages is its sheer convenience:
- Just a quick drive down Western Blvd lands you in historic downtown Tarboro, where you’ll find unique shops, restaurants, and the town’s famed Town Common green space.
- With US-64 Business and State Hwy 111 so close, commutes to major employers like Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, the Kingsboro Industrial Park, or Edgecombe Community College are a breeze.
- Need to head to Rocky Mount or Greenville? You’re right at the crossroads, making regional travel easy.
What Residents Love Most
Ask folks why they love living off Highway 64, and a few themes come up again and again:
- The perfect balance between town and country—quiet streets but with everything you need close by.
- The feeling of community, where neighbors genuinely care and newcomers are welcomed.
- Accessibility: whether it’s schools, doctors’ offices, community events, or the beauty of the Tar River, you’re never far from what matters most.
Many long-time residents will tell you that once you settle here, it’s hard to imagine leaving.
Is Highway 64 Right for You?
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a relaxed pace, friendly faces, and all the essentials close at hand, the Highway 64 area of Tarboro is well worth your consideration. It’s a place where people look out for each other, kids can play safely, and you can enjoy both convenience and community spirit.
If you decide to make your home here, you’ll find more than just a place to live—you’ll find yourself part of a genuine Tarboro tradition.