Living a Beach Lifestyle in Wilmington, North_Carolina

Wilmington is a fast growing city at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, on the Carolina coast. The city has a historic center and a mile long walk along the river. Many wonderful beaches are readily accessible.  UNC - Wilmington makes this a college town. The population was about 90,000 in 2007.

Mayfaire Town Center is the ultimate shopping experience in Wilmington. With over 50 stores including Ann Taylor, Banana Republic and the Sharper Image, Mayfaire has something for just about everyone. Unique shops and boutiques are scattered around downtown and the surrounding areas. The Cotton Exchange is located in historic downtown Wilmington, and is known for their 23 specialty shops.

With more than 50 golf courses within an hours drive, golfers will find the type of course to their liking - public, private, semi-private.

Where to Retire in Wilmington and Home Prices

According to the NAR, the median home sale price was  $387,800 in the 1st quarter of 2022. Places near the water and in desirable neighborhoods will be more. There are many active communities in the area (see link at left).

What Is Special about Wilmington

Wilmington has the beautiful southern coast of North Carolina. It has a large university (UNC - Wilmington), access to the Carolina beaches, and many great communities for active adults to live in. Its one mile long Riverwalk on the Cape Fear River is a major tourist attraction. The downtown has an extensive historical area.

What Is Not Special about Wilmington

It is hot and humid in the summer. Parts of the downtown have urban type problems. Many who have visited or move here are unhappy about crime, racial tensions, traffic, and uncontrolled growth.

Climate and Physical Environment

Wilmington is in southern North Carolina, near the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River. The average high in July is 90 and the average January low is 36.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Wilmington may be a small city but it doesn’t lack when it comes to the arts. As a center for both performing and visual arts, the community’s calendar is packed full of events. UNC - Wilmington generates many cultural and sporting events.

Crime

The crime rate is much higher than the U.S. average.

Medical Facilities

New Hanover Regional Medical Center is the local hospital.

Transportation

Wilmington Regional International Airport provides service to Wilmington. There is local bus service.

Valuable Links

City of Wilmington NC

North Carolina retirement guide
Wikipedia for Wilmington

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