Cost of Living in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington costs about the same as the national average.
What Things Cost
Compared to the US average (100)
Census ACS 2024
Census ACS 2024
BEA RPP 2023
BEA RPP 2023
Wilmington at a Glance
On the median income of $63,165, state income tax is roughly $2,685/year.
Sources: Census ACS 2024, Tax Foundation.
Wilmington is North Carolina's coastal gem: a riverfront downtown with film industry roots, beach access on three barrier islands, and a cost of living right at the national average. The city has hosted hundreds of film and TV productions (EUG Studios, formerly Screen Gems), giving it a creative undercurrent. Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach provide ocean access without the intensity of Myrtle Beach or the expense of the Outer Banks.
Who Lives Here
Source: Census ACS 2024.
Why People Move to Wilmington
Beach living at national-average costs with a 4.5% flat state income tax. The Riverwalk downtown is walkable with restaurants and shops. The film industry provides creative-sector jobs unusual for a city this size. UNC Wilmington adds academic energy. The historic district has character. The Cape Fear coast has natural beauty.
Neighborhoods
Downtown's Riverwalk area has restaurants and the Cotton Exchange. Historic District has antebellum homes. Wrightsville Beach is the most popular beach community. Carolina Beach has a more casual, family feel. Mayfaire and Landfall are affluent suburban areas. For affordable options, Leland across the river offers lower prices.
Things to Consider
Hurricane risk is direct and real (Florence in 2018 caused catastrophic flooding). Insurance costs are above average. The job market is tourism and retirement-dependent outside of healthcare and film production. Summer crowds on the beaches can be intense. The economy is seasonal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wilmington
At the national average, which is good for a beach city. Median homes at $428,900 are well below comparable coastal cities in the Northeast or California. The 4.5% flat state income tax adds to the value.
Excellent. Wrightsville Beach is the closest to downtown (20 minutes) with consistent waves and a laid-back vibe. Carolina Beach has the boardwalk and family character. Kure Beach is quieter. The barrier island setting means wide sandy beaches with Atlantic surf.
Yes. Hurricane Florence (2018) caused catastrophic flooding with 30+ inches of rain. The Cape Fear region is in the hurricane belt. Hurricane preparedness, flood insurance, and understanding evacuation routes are essential.