Elizabeth City is a city located in northeastern North Carolina, United States. It serves as the county seat of Pasquotank County. The city is situated on the Pasquotank River, about 45 miles south of Norfolk, Virginia. Elizabeth City has a population of approximately 18,000 people. It is known for its historic downtown area, waterfront parks, and a strong connection to aviation and the United States Coast Guard. The city is also home to Elizabeth City State University, a historically black college.