Get to know 5 of Wilmington's more affordable neighbors!
If you’re dreaming of coastal living but Wilmington’s home prices are a bit out of reach, don’t worry! Wilmington is surrounded by several nearby towns that offer more affordable home options and more bang for your buck, while keeping you close to the beach. Each of these cities and towns has their own local amenities, sites to see, and equally as much charm of coastal North Carolina.
1. Castle Hayne/Wrightsboro
Just north, and closest to Wilmington, Castle Hayne offers a mix of established neighborhoods and new developments at lower prices than Wilmington. If you’re looking for a little room to breathe, Castle Hayne is where you’ll find it! Its proximity to I-40 makes commuting into Wilmington a breeze.
New construction neighborhood mentions:
Sunset Reach | Preservation Point | Parsons Mill | Riverside Cove (Coming late 2025)
Closest beach: Wrightsville Beach
Neighborhoods to know: Hightsville & Walnut Hills
2. Leland
Leland is one of the fastest-growing towns in the area, offering new home communities, golf courses, and lower property prices than Wilmington. It’s just a short drive over the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, making it a great option for those who want to be near the city without the higher price tag. Navassa is Leland’s even closer counterpart, home to TONS of new apartment complexes.
Closest beach: Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach
Most notable parts of Leland:
Belville | Winnabow | Town Center | Jackey’s Creek | Compass Pointe | Brunswick Forest | Waterford | Sandy Creek | Navassa
3. Hampstead
Hampstead is a popular choice for homebuyers who want to be close to Topsail and Surf City, while enjoying more affordable home prices than Wilmington. It’s known for its excellent schools, golf courses, and laid-back coastal vibe! You can get larger lot sizes in Hampstead, newer construction, and overall, a little more peace and quiet. If you’re after the boat life, Hampstead has it for you with many marina options like Sloop Point marina! Hampstead is located in one of the best school districts around, Pender County Schools!
New construction neighborhood mentions:
Songbird
Closest Beach: Surf City/Topsail Island
Neighborhoods to know: Sloop Point | Scotts Hill | Edgecombe | Watts Landing | Washington Acres | Pecan Grove
4. Rocky Point
Rocky Point is a hidden gem for homebuyers looking for land, lower taxes, and a slower pace of life while still being a short drive from Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. This area is great for those looking for more space at an affordable price.
Rocky Point is also home to the VIRAL neighborhood, Kingbird! We covered Kingbird a few months ago on our social media, it is the perfect representation of Rocky Point.
New construction neighborhood mentions: Brick Chimney Landing | Kingbird
Closest beach: Surf City/Topsail
Neighborhoods to know: Long Creek & Mooretown
5. Burgaw
If you saw my most recent listing, you are already a Burgaw expert! Burgaw offers small-town charm with historic homes, quiet streets, and a much lower cost of living. While it’s a little farther inland, it provides a peaceful escape while still being within driving distance of the beaches and Wilmington’s amenities.
New construction neighborhood mentions:
Creekside Burgaw
Closest beach: Surf City/Topsail or Wrightsville
Neighborhoods to know: St. Helena | Murray Town
Ready to start your home search?
Whether you’re looking for a quiet inland town with easy beach access or an affordable coastal community, these areas offer great opportunities for homebuyers. If you’re thinking about making a move, reach out to The Costin Group to find the perfect home that fits your budget and lifestyle!
Learn more about homebuying in and around Wilmington, NC by reading our blog!
