If you’ve been dreaming of coastal living, endless sunshine, and a slower pace of life, Brunswick County, North Carolina may already be on your radar. Tucked along the southeastern corner of the state, this stretch of paradise offers small-town charm, stunning beaches, and a lifestyle that balances relaxation with opportunity.
Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or simply a change of scenery, Brunswick County is one of the fastest-growing areas in North Carolina—and for good reason. But before you pack the moving truck, here’s everything you need to know about living in this coastal gem.
Where Exactly is Brunswick County?
Brunswick County sits between Wilmington, NC to the north and Myrtle Beach, SC to the south. It’s a large county—over 850 square miles—made up of charming beach towns, riverside communities, and peaceful rural areas.
Key municipalities and communities include:
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Southport – Historic waterfront town with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of maritime charm.
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Oak Island – Popular beach destination with both vacation homes and full-time residents.
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Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach – Barrier island communities perfect for those who love being steps from the ocean.
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Leland – One of the fastest-growing towns, just minutes from Wilmington, offering suburban convenience.
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Shallotte – The central commercial hub of the county, with shopping, dining, and schools.
Why People are Moving Here
Over the last decade, Brunswick County has consistently ranked among the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina—and even the nation. Here’s why people are making the move:
1. Coastal Lifestyle Without the Big-City Price Tag
Compared to major coastal cities like Charleston or Virginia Beach, Brunswick County offers much more affordable home prices while still giving you access to beautiful beaches, boating, and water sports.
2. Retirement-Friendly
Brunswick County is a top retirement destination, attracting people from across the country. North Carolina doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, and property taxes here are relatively low. Plus, there’s a strong network of healthcare providers, including Novant Health and easy access to major hospitals in Wilmington.
3. Mild Climate
With mild winters and long, warm summers, Brunswick County offers nearly year-round outdoor living. Yes, hurricane season is a factor, but many residents say the lifestyle far outweighs the occasional storm prep.
4. Central Location
You’re within easy driving distance of Wilmington’s airport, Myrtle Beach entertainment, and major highways like I-140 and US-17, making travel simple.
Cost of Living in Brunswick County
While the cost of living varies depending on where you choose to live, Brunswick County is generally lower than the U.S. average for coastal areas.
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Median Home Price (2025): Around $375,000 (varies by town and proximity to the beach)
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Property Taxes: Average effective property tax rate is around 0.60%—well below the national average.
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Utilities: Similar to the U.S. average, though homes directly on the coast may see higher maintenance costs due to salt air.
Choosing the Right Community for You
One of the first decisions you’ll make is which part of Brunswick County to call home. Each area has its own personality.
Beach Lovers
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Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Sunset Beach – Perfect for those who want the sand just steps away. Homes range from charming cottages to luxury oceanfront estates.
Historic Charm
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Southport – Quaint downtown, historic homes, and a strong sense of community. Great for walking and boating.
Suburban Convenience
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Leland – Master-planned communities, new construction, and close to Wilmington’s jobs, shopping, and dining.
Small-Town Feel
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Shallotte, Bolivia, Supply – Affordable housing options, larger land parcels, and a quieter pace.
Job Market and Economic Opportunities
While many newcomers are retirees, Brunswick County’s job market is growing. The county has opportunities in:
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Healthcare (hospitals, urgent care, specialists)
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Hospitality & Tourism (hotels, restaurants, attractions)
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Construction & Skilled Trades (due to rapid growth)
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Education (public and private schools)
Many residents also commute to Wilmington for work, where there’s a larger selection of employers in fields like tech, film production, and higher education.
Schools and Education
Brunswick County Schools operates a number of elementary, middle, and high schools across the county, with a growing reputation for academic improvement and extracurricular opportunities.
For higher education, Brunswick Community College offers associate degrees, continuing education, and workforce training programs. The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) is less than 30 minutes away from Leland.
Healthcare Access
Residents have access to Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia, several urgent care clinics, and specialists throughout the county. For more complex care, Wilmington and Myrtle Beach both offer full-service hospitals.
Things to Do in Brunswick County
Living here means never running out of activities:
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Beaches & Water Sports – Swimming, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
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Golf – More than 30 courses in the county and nearby Myrtle Beach.
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Festivals – The NC 4th of July Festival in Southport, Oyster Festival in Ocean Isle Beach.
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Nature Trails – Brunswick Nature Park, Green Swamp Preserve.
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Historic Sites – Fort Anderson, Old Brunswick Town.
Weather and Hurricane Season
Brunswick County has mild winters (average highs in the 50s–60s) and warm summers (80s–90s). Hurricane season runs from June to November—and while direct hits are not yearly events, preparation is a must. Many homes are built to withstand coastal conditions, and flood insurance may be required in certain areas.
Real Estate Tips for Newcomers
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Work with a Local Realtor – A Brunswick County-based agent knows the nuances of each town and neighborhood, plus the ins and outs of flood zones.
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Consider Insurance Early – Factor in wind, hail, and flood insurance costs before you buy.
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Think About Lifestyle Needs – Do you want to walk to the beach, live in a golf community, or be near shopping and dining?
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Check HOA Rules – Many beach and planned communities have homeowners’ associations with specific guidelines.
Making the Move: Relocation Checklist
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Visit in person during different seasons to get a feel for year-round life.
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Secure temporary housing if you need time to find the right property.
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Transfer your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 60 days of moving.
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Explore local clubs, volunteer groups, and recreation centers to get connected.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Brunswick County is more than a change of address—it’s a change of pace. You’ll find welcoming communities, natural beauty, and a quality of life that’s hard to match. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retirement, a coastal family home, or an investment property, Brunswick County offers a little something for everyone.
If you’re ready to start your Brunswick County home search, let’s talk. As a local Realtor who knows every corner of this county, I can help you find the perfect fit for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Contact me today to begin your move to Brunswick County, NC!
