Coastal living brings out the new you. The version of you who spends weekends lounging by the beach. The type of person who says, “Let’s take the boat” instead of the car. The kind who enjoys a pleasant pace of life filled with family and community.
Living in coastal North Carolina has a particular charm you won’t find anywhere else in the country. But to keep it simple, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 11 reasons why people who move here end up loving the coastal lifestyle.
- Access to the Beach
Experience year-round coastal living. Your dream beach vacation can be every day when living in coastal North Carolina. This area has the best beaches in North Carolina. Go surfing at Wrightsville Beach, stroll the boardwalk at Carolina Beach, and escape to the quiet shores of Kure Beach.
The only thing left to do is decide if you want a beachfront location or whether you’ll settle for a short drive.
- Thriving Boating Culture
Water is a part of everyday life. From the Riverfront District in Wilmington lining the Cape Fear River to the Intracoastal Waterway linking barrier islands, there are plenty of water routes to explore with your vessel. It’s never long before local newcomers join in the boating fun. Cruise up to your neighbor’s house or dock at your favorite local restaurant. And sea-faring adventures always await.
- Activities and Leisure
If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll love living in coastal North Carolina. The beach is the obvious attraction when living on the coast. But several other outdoor activities will call your name every weekend. Explore the hiking trails in Carolina Beach State Park. Bike the 2.5-mile Loop at Wrightsville Beach. Go ziplining and ATV riding at the Shallotte River Swamp near Wilmington. Tee off at 30+ golf courses, all near Ocean Isle Beach.
- Exciting Events All Year Round
Coastal North Carolina keeps its calendar packed with fun annual events for the entire family. Start the year off right with the Wrightsville Beach Polar Plunge into the frigid Atlantic Ocean. Celebrate the arrival of spring during the Azalea Festival. Tune into the beach concerts and water sports tournaments during the summer. Join crowds of up to 75,000 of your neighbors during the Wilmington Riverfest. Revel in the holiday light displays illuminating boats during Wrightsville Beach’s annual NC Holiday Flotilla.
- High and Low Season for Tourism
Tourism in the coastal North Carolina area gives residents the best of both worlds. The high season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, during which you can enjoy a busy beach setting and many local events and activities. The low season is relaxed compared to the peak travel season. It’s when you can have the beach all to yourself and always get the ‘best seat in the house’ at the local restaurant hotspots.
- Suitable Weather All Year
The weather in coastal North Carolina is a perk to living here. During the summer, there is plenty of sunlight and refreshing coastal breezes. The mild winters average in the mid-50s and rarely get snow.
- Pet-Friendly Area
Are you a pet parent? Your pet will have no problem adjusting to living in coastal North Carolina. Many local communities welcome pets with pet-friendly accommodations, beaches, dog parks, and restaurants with pet-friendly patios.
- Growing Area
You’re not the only one considering living in the coastal North Carolina area. We’ve seen consistent growth across our communities, boosting the overall value of living here.
- Local College Presence
Go Seahawks! The University of North Carolina has a satellite campus located in Wilmington.
- Access to an International Airport
Living in coastal North Carolina keeps you connected to the world! The Wilmington International Airport (ILM) services the coastal area.
- Affordable Cost of Living
The cost of living in the US makes headlines every year. If your current home puts a strain on your pockets, relocating to coastal North Carolina can provide some much-needed relief.