All destinations
Wilmington, North Carolina
Riverfront history meets beach life.
Beach LivingArts & CultureBudget Retirement
At a glance
118,000
Population
37
Median age
$61,000
Median income
$410,000
Median home price
0.62%/yr
Property tax
$3,800
Monthly budget
102 (100=avg)
Cost of living
220/yr
Sunny days
39/100
Walk score
ILM — Wilmington (15 min)
Airport
4/5
Healthcare
60/100
Safety
Climate: Mild coastal, warm summers · State tax: Flat 4.5% (Social Security exempt)
Why retire in Wilmington?
Wilmington offers a historic riverfront downtown, nearby Wrightsville and Carolina beaches, and a milder coastal climate at a friendly price.
Pros
- Beaches minutes away
- Charming Riverwalk downtown
- Social Security not taxed
- Milder than Florida summers
Consider
- Hurricane exposure
- Growing traffic
- Coastal insurance costs
Lifestyle
Riverwalk strolls, beach days, film-town history, and a lively arts and dining scene.
Housing options
Historic homes, intracoastal properties, and 55+ communities like Compass Pointe/Brunswick Forest nearby.
Healthcare
Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center anchors the area.
Senior living resources
Brunswick County 55+ communities
OLLI at UNCW
Senior centers
Beach & river recreation
Local housing market
$410,000
Median sale price
52
Avg days on market
+3% yr/yr
Appreciation