Published: April 01, 2025

Your Guide to Moving to Wilmington, NC

The city’s charm and laid-back lifestyle make it a fantastic place to call home. If you’re thinking about moving to Wilmington, North Carolina, you’re in for a treat. This coastal city offers beautiful beaches, a historic downtown, and a vibrant community. Whether you’re relocating for work, school, or a fresh start, there’s something for everyone. This guide will cover everything you need to know before you make the move.

The Cost of Living in Wilmington

The city offers a good balance of cost and quality of life. One of the first things to consider when moving to Wilmington is the cost of living. Compared to other coastal cities, Wilmington is relatively affordable. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood, with downtown and beachside areas being more expensive. Groceries, utilities, and transportation are also reasonably priced, making Wilmington an attractive option for many. If you’re looking to rent, expect to pay around $1,400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the center of the city. Homebuyers can find a range of options, from historic homes to new developments, with median home prices being around $400,000.

Best Neighborhoods in Wilmington

Choosing the right neighborhood is key when moving to Wilmington. Here are some of the best areas to consider:

• Downtown Wilmington – Perfect for those who love history, culture, and nightlife. 
• Carolina Beach & Wrightsville Beach – Ideal for beach lovers who want a coastal lifestyle and to live close to the water.
• Ogden – A family-friendly neighborhood with great schools, parks, and easy access to shopping centers.
• Porters Neck – A more upscale suburban area with golf courses, gated communities, and waterfront properties.
• Monkey Junction – A growing area with affordable housing, convenient amenities, and a mix of city and suburban life.

Job Market and Economy

The city’s economy continues to grow, offering opportunities across various fields. If you’re relocating for work, Wilmington has a diverse job market. The largest industries in the area include healthcare, education, film production, and tourism. Wilmington is also home to several large employers, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), and GE Hitachi. Remote workers will also find Wilmington appealing due to its high-speed internet availability, coworking spaces, and relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Schools and Education in Wilmington

For families moving to Wilmington, the city offers excellent education options. The New Hanover County School District includes top-rated public schools like Hoggard High School and Isaac Bear Early College. UNCW provides higher education opportunities, offering various undergraduate and graduate programs. Cape Fear Community College is another great option for technical training or associate degrees.

Outdoor Activities and Recreation

Living in Wilmington means enjoying the outdoors. Whether you love the beach, parks, or water activities, there’s always something to do:

• Wrightsville Beach – A short drive from downtown, this beach is a hotspot for surfing, paddleboarding, and sunbathing.
• Airlie Gardens – A stunning botanical garden perfect for walking, photography, and seasonal events.
• Greenfield Lake Park – A peaceful place for kayaking, jogging, and spotting wildlife.
• The Riverwalk – A scenic boardwalk along the Cape Fear River, lined with restaurants and shops.

Traffic and Transportation

Wilmington is a car-dependent city, but traffic is manageable compared to larger metro areas. Interstate 40 connects Wilmington to Raleigh and other major cities, while U.S. Route 17 runs along the coast for easy travel. Public transportation is available through Wave Transit, which offers bus services around the city, though most residents find it more convenient to own a car. Rideshare services are also widely available for added convenience. Wilmington International Airport (ILM) provides direct flights to several major U.S. cities, making travel easy for residents.

Moving to Wilmington is an exciting opportunity to experience coastal living, a welcoming community, and a thriving economy. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s historic charm, outdoor adventures, or job prospects, Wilmington has something to offer. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant downtown, there’s always something new to explore. Start planning your move today, and get ready to enjoy life by the coast!

For reliable moving services for your move to Wilmington, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Wilmington or call (910) 469-0242.