There is a reason so many people dream of moving to the Port City. Between the stunning views along the Riverwalk, the surf at Wrightsville Beach, and the historic charm of downtown, Wilmington offers a lifestyle that is hard to beat. But before you pack your bags and head to the coast, you probably have a few practical questions about your budget.
Understanding the local economy is the first step in planning a successful move. You need to know if your salary matches the local cost of living and what kind of budget you need for housing. If you’re already looking at available luxury homes, getting a handle on the average income in the area will help you feel confident in your decision.
The financial landscape here is shifting. Wilmington is growing, and with that growth comes new job opportunities and a changing housing market. Whether you’re transferring for a job or just looking for a fresh start near the water, here is what you need to know about income and affordability in our area.
Wilmington is more than just a vacation destination. While tourism is a huge part of what makes this city vibrant, our local economy is diverse. We have a strong healthcare sector, a booming film industry (we are known as "Hollywood East" for a reason), and a growing tech scene.
Major employers like New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), and PPD (part of Thermo Fisher Scientific) provide stable, high-paying jobs that anchor the local economy. This mix of industries helps keep the job market relatively stable, even when tourism fluctuates during the off-season.
When looking at income data, it helps to look at a few different numbers to get the full picture. According to recent census data, the median household income in Wilmington sits at approximately $54,000. However, this number can be misleading if you don't look closer.
Family households often earn significantly more, with median incomes rising closer to $80,000. This gap exists because Wilmington has a large population of college students and service industry workers who work part-time or seasonally, which can pull the overall average down.
In the past five years, wages in New Hanover County have seen steady growth. As more remote workers move to the coast and tech companies expand their footprint here, we are seeing those average figures climb. If you’re a professional in healthcare, finance, or specialized manufacturing, your earning potential here is often competitive with larger cities like Raleigh or Charlotte, especially when you factor in the lifestyle benefits.
The biggest expense for most renters is housing. Fortunately, Wilmington offers a range of options, though prices have risen alongside the city's popularity. The general rule of thumb is that you should spend about 30% of your gross monthly income on rent.
If the average individual income is around $4,500 per month, a reasonable rent budget would be roughly $1,350 to $1,500. Of course, many people choose to spend a bit more to live in premium communities that offer amenities like pools, gyms, and proximity to the water.
When you start searching for apartments for rent in Wilmington North Carolina, you will find that location dictates price. Living right on the ocean or in the heart of the historic district commands a premium. However, areas like Riverlights offer a perfect balance—luxury living that is close to the water without the chaos of beach traffic during tourist season.
Groceries, utilities, and transportation in Wilmington are fairly standard for the region. You might spend a little more on dining out because the local restaurant scene is incredible, but generally, your dollar stretches reasonably well here compared to major metros in the Northeast or West Coast.
Yes, the job market here is active and expanding. In fact, the Wilmington area added over 4,000 new jobs in the last 12 months alone, according to regional economic reports.
We are seeing a specific surge in:
This growth means that even if you’re moving here without a job lined up, there are opportunities available across various skill levels.
This is the ultimate question. If you’re moving from a high-cost area like New York or D.C., Wilmington will likely feel like a bargain. If you’re moving from a rural area, you might find the costs a bit higher.
To live comfortably here, a single person should aim for an annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000. This allows you to secure a nice place to live, enjoy the local nightlife, and save for the future. For families or dual-income households, a combined income of $90,000+ opens the door to spacious living options in desirable neighborhoods.
When budgeting, don't forget to factor in lifestyle costs. You will want to buy a pass for the state parks, maybe rent a kayak, or enjoy the local seafood festivals. These experiences are what make living here special, so make sure your budget leaves room for fun.
Finding the right home is about balancing your budget with your lifestyle needs. When browsing apartments for rent in Wilmington North Carolina, look for value. Does the community offer a gym membership that saves you $50 a month? Is high-speed internet included? Is it energy-efficient to keep your utility bills low during the summer?
Newer communities often provide better insulation and modern HVAC systems, which is crucial for our warm, humid summers. A slightly higher rent for a modern apartment can often save you money in the long run on electricity bills compared to an older, drafty rental.
Wilmington is a vibrant, growing city where your income can provide a high quality of life. The economy is strong, the views are beautiful, and the community is welcoming. If you’re ready to make the move, looking at apartments for rent in Wilmington North Carolina is your first step toward enjoying everything the coast has to offer.
We would love to help you find your perfect home base. We offer modern luxury living surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cape Fear River.
Contact Oasis at Riverlights at (910) 631-5465 to schedule your tour today.