Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wrightsville Beach, NC
Considering a move to Wrightsville Beach, NC? This scenic coastal town of 2,593 residents boasts a relaxed island lifestyle, excellent schools, and an educated population—71% hold bachelor’s degrees or higher. With a median home price of $1,040,000 and average rent around $2,080, costs reflect the area’s desirability. Residents enjoy short 18-minute commutes, a mild climate with 63% sunny days, and low violent crime rates. Discover a welcoming community with top-rated schools and easy access to Wilmington’s amenities.
Demographics - Wrightsville Beach, NC
Demographics - Wrightsville Beach, NC
Wrightsville Beach is home to a close-knit population of 2,593, with a high median age of 54.2, reflecting a mature and settled community. The town is predominantly White, with over 96% of residents, and just over 3% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a vibrant, active coastal atmosphere.
Population:
2,593
Density:
2,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
2.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wrightsville Beach, NC?
Living in Wrightsville Beach comes with a premium, as the median home value stands at $1,040,000 and the overall cost of living index is well above the national average at 155. Essentials such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare are also higher than many U.S. cities, making it an upscale destination suited to those seeking a desirable coastal lifestyle. State income tax is a flat 4.75%, and average rent for a two-bedroom is $2,080 per month.
Median House Value:
$1,040,000
Gross Rent:
$2,080
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,050
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
4.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
155.0
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
235.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
100.0
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Wrightsville Beach, NC a safe place to live?
Wrightsville Beach experiences notably low violent crime, with only 89 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. Property crime rates are higher, with a chance of 1 in 48, but the overall crime index remains relatively moderate for a beach town. Residents can enjoy peace of mind in day-to-day life, especially compared to many larger urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
89
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,189
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,120
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Wrightsville Beach, NC year-round?
The climate in Wrightsville Beach is mild and inviting, with winter lows averaging 38°F and summer highs reaching 88°F. The area enjoys about 63% sunny days each year and receives 55 inches of rainfall, creating a lush, green environment. Residents benefit from comfortable year-round weather, perfect for outdoor and beach activities.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
73°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
60°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Wrightsville Beach boasts a well-educated and affluent community, with a household income averaging $112,000 and a high percentage of residents (71%) holding at least a bachelor’s degree. The poverty rate is low at 6.8%, and unemployment is just 3.2%, reflecting stable local employment. Most neighbors enjoy short commutes averaging 18 minutes and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Median Income:
$65,000
Household Income:
$112,000
Family Income:
$138,000
Per Capita Income:
$86,500
Income Male:
$90,000
Income Female:
$63,000
Poverty Rate:
6.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$2,080
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
98.5%
Bachelors or More:
71.0%
Education
How are the schools in Wrightsville Beach, NC?
Wrightsville Beach features excellent educational options, including a well-rated public elementary school and access to reputable private schools nearby. The University of North Carolina Wilmington, located just 7 miles away, offers higher education opportunities to local students. The community values education, as evidenced by its high percentage of degree holders and quality school choices.
Public Schools
Name:
Wrightsville Beach Elementary School
Street:
220 Coral Dr
Phone:
910-256-3171
Students:
360
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Private Schools
Name:
Cape Fear Academy
Street:
3900 S College Rd, Wilmington, NC
Phone:
910-791-0287
Students:
660
Colleges
Name:
University of North Carolina Wilmington
City:
Wilmington
State:
NC
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
18,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, with Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center nearby offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The community has 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.8%. Healthcare services here are well-regarded and readily available.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Address:
2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone:
(910) 667-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wrightsville Beach, NC?
The Wrightsville Beach housing market is highly competitive, with a median home price of $1,040,000 and an average rent of $2,080 for a two-bedroom apartment. Owner occupancy is high at over 74%, and the home appreciation rate has reached 7.1% over the past year. The area’s desirability is reflected in strong demand and limited new construction.
Median Home Price:
$1,040,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,080
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
13.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Wrightsville Beach residents are provided by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Raleigh. Residents can manage licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs both online and at state offices. The DMV offers convenient access and resources through their official website for all transportation-related requirements.
State:
North Carolina
Department:
North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1100 New Bern Ave, Raleigh, NC 27697
Phone:
1-919-715-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.