Moving to Brunswick Co North Carolina? Here's What Homebuyers Need to Know

Moving to Brunswick County, NC? Here’s What Homebuyers Need to Know

If you’re thinking about relocating to the southeastern coast of North Carolina, Brunswick County real estate has probably caught your eye -and for good reason. This stretch of coastal paradise sits neatly between Wilmington, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC, offering a rare balance of small-town charm, scenic beauty, and easy access to beaches, golf, and culture. But before you start house-hunting or packing boxes, it’s worth getting a full picture of what life here really looks like, and what you should know as a homebuyer.

1. Brunswick County’s Lifestyle: Laid-Back Coastal Living with a Twist

People move to Brunswick County for its pace as much as its place. You’ll find quiet, walkable beach towns like Oak Island, Ocean Isle Beach, and Holden Beach, each with its own rhythm. Southport, with its tree-lined streets and historic waterfront, leans storybook quaint. Inland communities such as Leland, Shallotte, and Bolivia offer newer neighborhoods and more affordable options—many with quick access to the coast without the flood insurance costs or tourist traffic.

Retirees make up a large portion of newcomers, but the county’s steady growth has attracted a mix of remote workers, young families, and entrepreneurs looking for a slower pace without sacrificing amenities. You’ll find that most residents here share a love of the outdoors—boating, fishing, kayaking, or simply sitting on the porch watching the tide change.

2. The Real Estate Market: Still Competitive, But with Breathing Room

After several years of intense buyer competition, Brunswick County’s real estate market has cooled slightly, giving home buyers a bit more leverage. Still, desirable properties—especially near the beaches or in planned communities—can move fast.

Here’s what to expect:

• Median home prices vary widely, from around the mid-$300s inland to $600K+ for coastal properties.

• New construction remains strong, particularly around Leland, Supply, and Bolivia. Builders are expanding fast, with communities that feature pools, clubhouses, walking trails, and even pickleball courts.

• Resale homes in established beach towns can be scarce, but offer the charm and mature landscaping many buyers prefer.

• Vacation rentals are common, so if you’re buying near the coast, consider how short-term rental rules or HOA restrictions might impact your plans.

A seasoned local real estate agent can help you navigate neighborhood nuances—from flood zones and insurance considerations to which developments are truly up-and-coming versus overhyped.

3. Taxes, Insurance, and Cost of Living

North Carolina remains a tax-friendly state for retirees and working professionals alike. Property taxes in Brunswick County are lower than the national average, and there’s no state estate tax.

That said, homeowners insurance—especially wind and flood policies—can add up if you’re near the coast. It’s important to get quotes early in your home search, as insurance costs can vary dramatically by zip code and elevation.

The cost of living overall is moderate, and many residents find it more affordable than major metros like Raleigh, Charlotte, or Charleston. Groceries, utilities, and services tend to fall right around national averages.

4. Weather and Environment: Beauty with a Side of Humidity

Brunswick County enjoys a mild coastal climate, with short winters and long summers that stretch well into October. You’ll trade snow shovels for sunscreen, but you’ll also need to plan for hurricane season, which typically runs from June through November.

Flooding can be a concern in certain low-lying areas, but modern building codes and improved stormwater management have helped mitigate risk. If you’re buying close to the water, review FEMA flood maps and ask for elevation certificates—it’s all part of due diligence here.

On the upside, this subtropical environment supports lush landscaping, year-round golf, and gardens that thrive long past fall.

5. Community and Amenities: More Than Just Beach Days

One of the biggest surprises for new residents is how much Brunswick County has grown. You’ll find major retailers and restaurants in Shallotte and Leland, while local farmers’ markets, seafood shacks, and boutique shops fill out the character of smaller towns.

Healthcare options have expanded, with Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia and several urgent care clinics throughout the county. Wilmington, just across the Cape Fear River, adds another layer of amenities—arts, dining, and an international airport.

If you’re a golfer, there are more than 30 courses in the county alone. And if you’re into boating or beachcombing, well, you’re never more than a few miles from water.

6. Growth and Future Outlook

Brunswick County has been one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina for years. Infrastructure is catching up—new schools, expanded roadways, and broadband access are steadily improving. This growth bodes well for long-term property values, but it also means some areas are transitioning from sleepy to suburban.

If you prefer quiet, look toward communities a bit inland or near the smaller barrier islands. If you want proximity to Wilmington or a shorter commute, Leland continues to boom with planned neighborhoods and mixed-use developments.

7. A Few Practical Tips for Buyers

• Work with a local lender familiar with coastal appraisals and insurance requirements.

• Get a home inspection and a separate moisture inspection, especially for homes near the water.

• Visit in person if possible—some neighborhoods look very different in high season versus winter.

• Ask about HOA fees and what they cover. Many communities include lawn care, internet, and amenity access, which can offset monthly costs.

• Plan for lifestyle fit, not just curb appeal. Are you looking for a social community with events, or a quiet cottage tucked among oaks?

The Bottom Line

Moving to Brunswick County means embracing a slower, saltier kind of life. It’s a place where the sound of gulls replaces traffic noise, and you measure time by tides more than clocks. Whether you’re eyeing a cottage near the water, a golf course villa, or a new home in one of the county’s growing inland communities, you’ll find that Brunswick offers something rare—a coastal lifestyle that still feels genuine.

Just come ready to exhale, and to trade a little convenience for the kind of peace most people only visit.