Wilmington waterfront with downtown buildings across the river and grasses in the foreground.
Welcome to

Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina is a dynamic coastal city where historic charm meets modern living, offering everything from riverfront culture to beachside escapes. With its thriving real estate market, walkable downtown, and vibrant lifestyle, Wilmington is the heartbeat of southeastern North Carolina.

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Living in Wilmington, North Carolina

Wilmington, North Carolina, is a vibrant coastal city where history, culture, and modern convenience converge to create one of the most desirable places to live in the Southeast. Nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Wilmington offers a dynamic mix of waterfront living, historic charm, and an ever-growing list of lifestyle amenities—all within minutes of some of North Carolina’s most beautiful beaches.

At the heart of the city is the historic downtown district, known for its cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, award-winning restaurants, and riverfront boardwalk. This area blends timeless architecture with a creative energy that appeals to professionals, families, retirees, and second-home buyers alike. Whether you're exploring the arts district, catching live music, or dining along the Riverwalk, Wilmington offers a rich, walkable lifestyle that’s hard to match.

Wilmington’s real estate market is equally diverse—from restored historic homes and new luxury townhomes to golf course communities, waterfront estates, and beachfront condos. With top-rated schools, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and a strong local economy fueled by tech, film, education, and tourism, the city is more than just a place to vacation—it’s a place to invest and thrive.

The surrounding beaches—Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach—are all just a short drive away, making it easy to enjoy the best of both city life and coastal living. Wilmington is also home to the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), a major regional airport, and an active port, positioning it as a hub of both culture and commerce in coastal Carolina.

At The McKinney Group, we know that Wilmington isn’t just a market—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, investing, or selling, we offer the local expertise, elevated marketing, and white-glove service that ensures your real estate experience here is exceptional from start to finish.

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Overview for Wilmington, North Carolina, NC

118,578 people live in Wilmington, North Carolina, where the median age is 37.5 and the average individual income is $46,062. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

118,578

Total Population

37.5 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density
This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$46,062

Average individual Income

Around Wilmington, North Carolina, NC

There's plenty to do around Wilmington, North Carolina, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

68
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
54
Bikeable
Bike Score
36
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Farmacist Mixers & Elixirs, Firehouse Kettle Korn, and Pulaski Market.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 0.03 miles 0 reviews 0/5 stars
Dining 0.03 miles 0 reviews 0/5 stars
Dining 0.07 miles 5 reviews 4.8/5 stars
Dining 0.27 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.32 miles 1 review 5/5 stars
Active 0.04 miles 0 reviews 0/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Wilmington, North Carolina, NC

Population Households Employment

Wilmington, North Carolina has 55,145 households, with an average household size of 2.06. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Wilmington, North Carolina do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 118,578 people call Wilmington, North Carolina home. The population density is 2,307 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

118,578

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

37.5 years

Median Age

47 / 53%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
55,145

Total Households

2.06

Average Household Size

$46,062

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Wilmington, North Carolina, NC

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Wilmington, North Carolina. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

Current Listings & Past Transactions

Portfolio

  • 23 Sailview Drive For Sale

    $2,800,000

    23 Sailview Drive, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460

    • 3 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 3,859 Sq.Ft.
  • Modern coastal home with illuminated windows overlooking the ocean at sunset. Sold

    $2,400,000

    736 Dune Ridge Court, Surf City, NC 28445

    • 6 Beds
    • 7 Baths
    • 3,358 Sq.Ft.
  • Tall dark-shingle coastal home with white trim and a garage beside the ocean. Sold

    $2,400,000

    740 Dune Ridge Court, Surf City, NC 28445

    • 6 Beds
    • 7 Baths
    • 3,358 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal home with gray shingle siding and illuminated windows, framed by neighboring houses and the ocean at sunset. Sold

    $2,325,000

    738 Dune Ridge Court, Surf City, NC 28445

    • 6 Beds
    • 7 Baths
    • 3,358 Sq.Ft.
  • Multi-story home with wraparound balconies and a rooftop terrace at sunset. For Sale

    $1,890,000

    Lot 46 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

    • 4 Beds
    • 5 Baths
    • 3,835 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal homes beside a waterway, with docks, sailboats, sandy islands, and ocean beyond. For Sale

    $1,885,000

    Lot 63 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront homes line a marina, with boats, sandy islands, and a sailboat beyond. For Sale

    $1,885,000

    Lot 69 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of waterfront homes beside a marina, with boats and sandy islands beyond. For Sale

    $1,730,000

    Lot 64 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of coastal homes beside a marina, with sailboats and ocean beyond. For Sale

    $1,730,000

    Lot 65 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of coastal homes beside a harbor with docks, boats, and sandy islands. For Sale

    $1,730,000

    Lot 66 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront homes beside a marina, inlet, and sandy barrier islands. For Sale

    $1,730,000

    Lot 67 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with sailboats and an ocean inlet. For Sale

    $1,730,000

    Lot 68 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • White-brick home with multiple gables and a metal porch roof, warmly lit at dusk. Sold

    $1,320,000

    404 E Blackbeard Road, Wilmington, NC 28409

    • 5 Beds
    • 5 Baths
    • 4,030 Sq.Ft.
  • Aerial view of waterfront homes and private docks along an inlet at sunset. For Sale

    $1,320,000

    15 Shipyard Lane, Hampstead, NC 28443

  • Elevated white coastal home with twin upper balconies, palm trees, and a broad gravel driveway. Sold

    $1,250,000

    402 17th Street, Sunset Beach, NC 28468

    • 5 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 2,326 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with docks, sailboats, and ocean views. For Sale

    $1,010,000

    Lot 61 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Elevated aqua beach house with multiple balconies and long stairs leading down to the sand. Sold

    $975,000

    3960 Island Drive, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460

    • 4 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 1,859 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal homes beside marina docks and blue waterways, viewed from above. For Sale

    $885,000

    Lot 56 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of waterfront homes beside a marina, tidal inlet, and sandy islands. For Sale

    $885,000

    Lot 57 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront community of coastal homes with pools and docks overlooking an inlet and sandy islands. For Sale

    $885,000

    Lot 58 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront homes line a sandy beach, with private docks and boats along the wooded shore. For Sale

    $885,000

    Lot 59 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with sailboats and ocean beyond. For Sale

    $885,000

    Lot 60 Harbor Master Point, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Raised light-blue coastal home with a white staircase, covered porch, and carport beneath. Sold

    $730,000

    2003 W Yacht Drive, Oak Island, NC 28465

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,361 Sq.Ft.
  • Raised coastal-style home with navy siding, red shutters, a covered porch, and parking underneath. Sold

    $720,000

    97 NE 19th Street, Oak Island, NC 28465

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,489 Sq.Ft.
  • Aerial view of coastal homes beside a marina, with boats and ocean in the background. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 47 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront community with rows of homes, a sandy beach, and boats docked along the shore. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 48 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront community with homes, a sandy beach, long piers, and boats in the marina. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 49 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Waterfront homes beside a marina, with boats and sandy islands across the water. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 52 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside a marina and inlet, with sailboats and ocean beyond. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 53 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with sailboats and sandy islands beyond. For Sale

    $710,000

    Lot 54 Mariners Cove Circle, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Light-colored modern farmhouse with multiple gables, dark roofing, and a broad front lawn. Sold

    $691,783

    569 Crown Pointe Drive, Hampstead, NC 28443

    • 4 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 2,884 Sq.Ft.
  • Gray raised coastal-style house with turquoise shutters, a broad front staircase, palm trees, and colorful flower beds. Sold

    $690,000

    104 Island Palms Drive, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 1,966 Sq.Ft.
  • Large yellow beach house overlooks neighboring coastal homes, sandy shoreline, and ocean at sunset. Sold

    $682,064

    114 Summer Winds Place, Surf City, NC 28445

    • 3 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 1,973 Sq.Ft.
  • White two-story house with a blue front door, covered balcony, and attached double garage. Sold

    $676,908

    202 Planters Walk, Hampstead, NC 28443

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,689 Sq.Ft.
  • Blue raised house with a large screened porch above an open ground-level patio and wide concrete driveway. Sold

    $665,000

    144 NE 4th Street, Oak Island, NC 28465

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,474 Sq.Ft.
  • 206 Azalea Circle, a one-story home with a metal roof, attached garage, and gravel driveway. Sold

    $650,000

    206 Azalea Circle, Sunset Beach, NC 28468

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 1,800 Sq.Ft.
  • Two-story blue-and-white house with shingle siding, a covered porch, and a concrete walkway. Sold

    $644,820

    4025 Watersail Drive 128, Wilmington, NC 28409

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,636 Sq.Ft.
  • Gray house exterior with multiple gables, stone accents, an attached garage, and landscaped flower beds. Sold

    $630,000

    6502 Lowman Place SW 80, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469

    • 5 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 2,756 Sq.Ft.
  • Raised home with a white-railed porch, wood ceiling, garage, and covered parking beneath. Sold

    $628,700

    1017 Trout Lane Unit B, Kure Beach, NC 28449

    • 3 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • 1,700 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal condominium complex with palm trees, swimming pools, and an ocean view. Sold

    $572,500

    790 New River Inlet Road, Unit 206a, North Topsail Beach, NC 28460

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,237 Sq.Ft.
  • Blue-gray house with a two-car garage and covered porch beneath a colorful sunset sky. Sold

    $497,500

    2061 Course Lane Lot 281, Surf City, NC 28445

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,817 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with private pools, boats, and a sailboat on the water. For Sale

    $475,000

    Lot 43 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Two-story home with a stone facade, turquoise front door, and attached two-car garage. Sold

    $440,000

    108 Ridgepath Lane, Hubert, NC 28539

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,817 Sq.Ft.
  • Single-story home with a green metal roof and covered red porch facing a broad lawn. Sold

    $425,000

    4173 Englishtown Road, Wallace, NC 28466

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 2,310 Sq.Ft.
  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with boats, sandy islands, and a sailboat offshore. For Sale

    $420,000

    Lot 36 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of coastal homes beside an inlet, with docks, boats, and sandy islands. For Sale

    $420,000

    Lot 38 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside an inlet with docks, boats, and open ocean beyond. For Sale

    $420,000

    Lot 39 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Coastal homes beside a marina, with boats, a blue-water inlet, and the ocean beyond. For Sale

    $420,000

    Lot 41 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of waterfront homes, sandy beach, and boat slips along a wooded shoreline. For Sale

    $400,000

    Lot 34 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

  • Aerial view of coastal homes beside a marina, with sailboats on the inlet and sandy islands beyond. For Sale

    $390,000

    Lot 30 Beacons End Terrace, Wilmington, NC 28412

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