Get to know each of Wilmington's 9 zip codes!
If you saw my latest TikTok video, you heard me break down New Hanover County by our nine different zip codes! But I would bet that some of you didn’t even know that Wilmington, NC even HAD 9 zip codes!! I’m very much a numbers gal, and I love to see the stats, in particular, stats that pertain to real estate. So I thought, how cool would it be to be able to see how many active listings are in each zip code?!… so it only made sense to combine the two, for the perfect visual effect. If you haven’t watched the video, highly recommend before you go any further 👀
Wilmington, NC, and the greater New Hanover County area offer many diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character, amenities, and real estate market trends. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in Wilmington, understanding these 9 different zip codes can help you make the best decision!
28411 – Expanding Growth & Family-Friendly Communities
From Scotts Hill Loop to Porters Neck, and Ogden: these three areas define this northern Wilmington, NC zip code, offering newer developments, golf communities, and great public and charter schools. 28411 is one of the fastest-growing areas in New Hanover County. Some of our favorite neighborhoods are found in 28411 like Marsh Oaks, Bayshore (which has $50/year boat ramp access), Providence, and don’t forget to take a ride on the new Military Cutoff Bypass! Stop by the skate park at Ogden Park on your way! Ogden is the place to be!
28405 – Upscale Living & Shopping Hubs
Traveling into Landfall’s gated luxury homes to the bustling Mayfaire shopping district, 28405 offers high-end real estate with proximity to top schools, dining, and entertainment. It’s one of Wilmington’s most desirable areas. And you can’t forget about NorthChase, home to Laney High School, and a proud part of 28405! We consider 28405, “the bubble,” because it’s so centrally located!
28403 – Central Wilmington & College Area
Water access and prime location, this is the name of the game in 28403. Bradley Creek Marina will start this zip code off, and take us around Wrightsville Avenue to Forest Hills! This zip code includes popular neighborhoods like Oleander West, Live Oak, and the UNCW area. With a mix of older homes, new developments, and student housing, 28403 is ideal for families, professionals, and investors looking for strong rental potential.
28409 – Waterfront Homes & Suburban Comfort
Intracoastal access neighborhoods are the name of the game in 28409. Masonboro Harbour and Trails End just to name a few, 28409 is known for beautiful waterfront properties, top-rated schools, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Many homes here offer direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Additionally, Masonboro Elementary School is one of the fan favorites, you can find families riding golf carts and bikes to school from neighborhoods like Windward Oaks and Tyndall! The Veggie Wagon is the Friday night meet up if you’re a 28409 groupie!
28412 – Affordable Options & Beach Proximity
South Wilmington, including the Riverlights community, features a mix of affordable and mid-range homes. If you’re looking for the no-HOA life, Silva Terra is where you want to be! But if higher end is your jam, we have that too. Residents in 28412 enjoy easy access to Carolina Beach and downtown Wilmington, and their preferred grocery store is usually Walmart in Monkey Junction or Publix in Pine Valley. Whether you’re golfing in Beau Rivage, or alligator hunting in The Cape- 28412 brings you all the way from Echo Farms to CB in the best way!
28401 – Historic Charm & Downtown Living
If you’ve been to Sunset Park or around to the Cargo District, you’ve been to 28401! Wilmington’s historic downtown, 28401, features cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and a mix of historic homes and modern condos. This area is perfect for those who love walkability, vibrant nightlife, and being close to the Cape Fear River. Carolina Place is the classic bungalow style, on-street parking vibe, while Hanover Lakes is a newer Bill Clark community over by the airport…28401 covers a wide Cape Fear River frontage.
28429 – Castle Hayne & Rural Charm
Located just north of Wilmington, 28429 offers a blend of rural charm and growing development. Castle Hayne and Wrightsboro have a little more of a country feel, these areas feature larger lots, lower property taxes, and a quieter atmosphere while still providing easy access to downtown Wilmington and I-40. This zip code is great for those looking for affordable housing options, space to spread out, and a relaxed pace of life. Castle Hayne has the easiest access to downtown Wilmington!
28480 – Wrightsville Beach & Coastal Luxury
Across the drawbridge to Wrightsville Beach, 28480 offers stunning oceanfront homes, waterfront condos, and a laid-back beach town atmosphere. This exclusive zip code is perfect for those seeking luxury coastal living, world-class boating, and some of the best surf spots in North Carolina. You’ve seen PLENTY of Wrightsville content over on our Instagram and especially on my TikTok! We love being WB locals!
28428 – Carolina Beach & Coastal Living
Carolina Beach, located in 28428, is a vibrant coastal community known for its lively boardwalk, beachfront homes, and year-round outdoor activities. We sell tons of real estate in CB, and Matt even has a property management company (check out Goin Coastal Property Management) in this zip code! Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental, a waterfront condo, or a full-time residence, this area offers a mix of affordability and island charm. Residents enjoy easy access to boating the Intracoastal, fishing, and the natural beauty of Carolina Beach State Park.
Ready for even more Wilmington, NC neighborhood info?
It’s time to get my free Wilmington Neighborhood Guide! There are over 13 pages of info from neighborhoods by price point, lifestyle, neighborhoods with sidewalks, school district info, the best parks & playgrounds, rules for the beach, and SO much more!
And when you’re ready to make the move in or around Wilmington, NC, The Costin Group is here to help! We would love to be your first call about real estate, whether you’re buying or selling.
With warm wishes from the beach,
Matt & Caroline
