Your Guide to Living in Wilmington, North Carolina

Have you noticed more people moving to Wilmington lately? You’re not imagining it! This postcard-perfect port city has quickly become one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country, ranking ninth nationally for population growth. With award-winning beaches, a booming job market and an exceptional quality of life, it’s no wonder Wilmington has earned a spot among the Top 100 Best Places to Live.

Wilmington offers a rare blend of coastal relaxation and dynamic urban opportunity. Its affordable cost of living, pleasant year-round weather and expanding economy make it easy to understand why so many are choosing to call this city home. Whether you’re seeking new career opportunities, your next great adventure or the ideal place to retire, Wilmington checks all the boxes.

If you’re wondering what all the buzz is about, this guide will show you why so many people are planting roots in this North Carolina gem.

Career Opportunities in a Growing Market

Wilmington’s job market is thriving. North Carolina was named America’s Top State for Business in 2025 for the third time in four years, and Wilmington plays a key role in that success. Fortune 500 companies, such as Amazon, Wells Fargo and DuPont, along with major employers like Novant Health, provide a solid foundation for economic growth. An expanding tech scene has drawn a new wave of professionals, with more than 11,000 tech jobs created in the past five years. Wilmington’s bustling seaport and access to major shipping routes also support a strong logistics and trade sector, adding to the city’s diverse economic base. Whether you work in healthcare, logistics, education, technology or marine science, Wilmington offers long-term opportunities in a scenic seaside setting you’ll love coming home to.

From building careers to nurturing young minds, Wilmington sets the stage for success.

Top-Tier Schools and Higher Education

Families and lifelong learners will appreciate Wilmington’s commitment to education. The New Hanover County School System serves as a cornerstone of the community, while the public library system provides free learning resources, programs and services for all ages. Higher education has a strong presence, thanks to the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)—a nationally recognized university known for its exceptional marine biology programs. UNCW’s Watson College of Education is also widely respected for its teacher-preparation programs, equipping future educators with the skills and support they need to succeed in today’s classrooms. From early education to advanced degrees, Wilmington offers a strong foundation for learning at every stage of life.

Great schools are just the beginning—this is also a city that invites you to get outside and explore.

Coastal Beauty and Endless Outdoor Adventure

If you love the outdoors, Wilmington is paradise. Ranked the #2 Best Beach Town in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure, this city is a haven for outdoor lovers and coastal explorers. Wilmington is home to three distinctive beaches: Carolina Beach, with its inviting boardwalk; Kure Beach, home to a historic fishing pier and the North Carolina Aquarium; and Wrightsville Beach, known for crystal-clear waters and excellent surfing. Prefer something different? Greenfield Lake Park offers five miles of trails, gardens and kayaking. Nearby, Airlie Gardens invites you to stroll beneath centuries-old oak trees, including the iconic 500-year-old Airlie Oak. And for breathtaking views, don’t miss the highly esteemed Wilmington Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River. Adventure looks different for everyone, and in Wilmington, it’s all within reach.

When you’ve had your fill of sun and surf, dive into the city’s creative spirit and rich history.

Culture, History and Year-Round Fun

Wilmington has a rich cultural scene where film, theater and live music take center stage. Nicknamed the “Hollywood of the East” or “Wilmywood,” the city has served as the backdrop for many popular shows and movies. Community events, like the Carolina Beach Music Festival and Riverfest, bring people together with parades, concerts and fireworks. History lovers will appreciate landmarks such as the Bellamy Mansion and the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, while thrill-seekers can enjoy a Wilmington Sharks baseball game or the all-ages excitement at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. The city’s largest outdoor concert venue, Live Oak Bank Pavilion, also brings national music to the scenic Cape Fear River. Altogether, Wilmington’s cultural landscape delivers unforgettable experiences wrapped in southern charm.

From music festivals to museum visits, there’s always something happening—and something delicious to eat close by.

Bold Flavors and Local Favorites

Wilmington’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its shoreline, with more than 40 locally owned eateries and pubs offering everything from coastal classics to globally inspired cuisine. Fresh seafood is a staple—hotspots like Seabird and Catch showcase what’s in season, while longtime favorites like Casey’s Buffet deliver Southern comfort with soul. Craving international flair? Local gems like Indochine, Savorez and Roko Italian Cuisine bring bold global flavors to the table. The city’s brewery scene is also thriving, with spots like Front Street Brewery and for a true tasting experience, hop on the Port City Brew Bus to explore Wilmington’s best. From casual beach bites to upscale dining downtown, there’s something for every craving.

Ready to experience it all for yourself? HHHunt is here to help you settle into the Wilmington lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.

Live With HHHunt in Wilmington

If Wilmington sounds like your kind of place, we’d love to help you call it home. HHHunt offers stunning new homes and apartment communities designed for modern living. Fawn Valley features spacious single-family homes with flexible floor plans and energy-efficient features—all just minutes from Carolina Beach. For low-maintenance townhome living, McQuillan Pines offers a gated setting with resort-style amenities that make every day feel like a vacation. And coming soon, Abberly Landing will introduce luxury apartment living with smart-home technology, lifestyle amenities and high-end finishes.

At HHHunt, we believe it’s how you live that matters—and Wilmington makes it easy to love where you live.