Why Wilmington, NC Is One of the Most Affordable Beach Towns to Live In
If you’ve ever dreamed of living near the ocean, without the sky-high price tag, Wilmington, North Carolina, might just be your perfect match. Recently named one of the “Most Affordable Beach Towns You Can Actually Live In” by Avocadu, Wilmington offers the rare combination of coastal charm, livability, and affordable real estate.
Coastal Town Without the Coastal Price Tag
According to Avocadu, Wilmington ranks #9 on their list of affordable beach towns, and it’s easy to see why. With housing costs below many other East Coast markets, residents can enjoy:
Proximity to pristine beaches, like Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach
A mix of historic downtown homes, modern builds, and suburban neighborhoods
A cost of living that balances southern hospitality with modern amenities
In fact, the publication praises Wilmington for offering “the best of coastal living” at a much more accessible price point, perfect for those wanting a beach town lifestyle without the luxury-home price tag.
A City on the Rise—With Strong Investment Potential
The increased attention from national publications only solidifies what locals already know: Wilmington is growing, and fast. With more people relocating from major metros, the real estate market here continues to thrive. At Full Circle Real Estate, we’ve seen:
Competitive buyer activity year-round
Strong ROI for sellers using our concierge staging program
New builds and established neighborhoods both gaining value
Thinking about investing or relocating? Our team specializes in helping clients navigate Wilmington’s diverse neighborhoods, from luxury listings near the Intracoastal to charming downtown bungalows.
Lifestyle Beyond the Beach
While the beaches are a huge draw, Wilmington offers so much more. According to Avocadu and Travel + Leisure, it’s also a city filled with:
Diverse restaurants and local breweries
A vibrant arts and music scene
Great schools and family-friendly communities
Access to nature, parks, and historic landmarks
Whether you're a retiree looking for your next chapter, a family ready to put down roots, or a remote worker craving ocean breezes and creative culture, Wilmington checks all the boxes.
Short-Term Rental Income Potential
If you’re looking to maximize your investment, Wilmington is a prime spot for short-term rentals. With its appeal to tourists, business travelers, and seasonal visitors, rental properties here tend to perform well on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Many second-home owners find that they can offset ownership costs or even generate significant income by renting their property when not in use.
Ready to Make the Move?
Want to see what’s available in Wilmington right now?
Check out our current listings or schedule a consultation with us.
Interested in our staging concierge program that helps sellers maximize ROI with zero upfront costs?
Learn more here.