Wilmington, North Carolina, isn't just a backdrop for teenage dramas like One Tree Hill or Dawson's Creek; it's a vibrant coastal city that has seen a surge in popularity. With its historic downtown Riverwalk, proximity to Wrightsville Beach, and a growing job market, it's easy to see why so many people are flocking to the Port City. But as the population grows, so does the cost of living. If you're considering a move here or are already a resident looking to budget better, the big question on your mind is likely: How much money do I actually need to make to live here comfortably?
This guide breaks down the real costs of living in Wilmington to help you determine what a "livable" salary looks like for your specific situation.
No, a livable wage is significantly higher than the minimum wage. While the federal minimum wage (which North Carolina follows) sits at $7.25 an hour, a livable salary is the income needed to cover basic necessities—housing, food, healthcare, transportation—without relying on outside help, while still having a little bit left over for savings and minor luxuries.
Think of it as the difference between surviving and thriving. A survival wage keeps you fed and housed but one flat tire away from disaster. A livable salary allows you to pay rent for nice apartments for rent in Wilmington North Carolina, buy fresh groceries, and maybe enjoy a sunset dinner on the Cape Fear River without constantly checking your bank balance.
To figure out your magic number, we need to look at the line items in your monthly budget. Let's break down the major expenses you will face living in this coastal gem.
Housing is almost always the biggest chunk of your budget. In Wilmington, rental prices have fluctuated, but demand remains high. Whether you're looking near the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) or closer to the quieter Riverlights community, rent will dictate your required salary.
According to recent data, the average rent for an apartment in Wilmington hovers around $1,400 to $1,600 per month, though luxury or larger units can go higher. If you're looking for modern amenities and river views, checking current listings is crucial. For example, you can view current availability at Oasis at Riverlights to see what a top-tier rental budget looks like today.
While our winters are mild compared to the North, our summers are hot and humid. You will be running your air conditioning heavily from May through September.
Are you cooking at home or eating out? Wilmington has an incredible food scene, from seafood in Carolina Beach to bistros downtown.
Unless you live and work strictly downtown, you will likely need a car. Public transit (Wave Transit) exists, but a personal vehicle is the standard here.
Even with employer-sponsored insurance, you have out-of-pocket costs.
Let’s do the math for a single renter living alone in a one-bedroom apartment.
Total Monthly Expenses: $3,550
To cover this, you would need an annual net income (after taxes) of roughly $42,600. However, since taxes take a bite out of your paycheck, your gross annual salary needs to be closer to $53,000 to $55,000 to live comfortably as a single renter in Wilmington.
This aligns with the general "50/30/20 rule" of budgeting, where 50% of income goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings. If your rent is $1,500, and you want that to be 30% of your gross income (a standard landlord requirement), you need to make $60,000 a year.
It depends heavily on your industry. Wilmington has a service-heavy economy due to tourism, but healthcare, education, and film are also major players.
If you fall into the lower brackets, you'ren't priced out, but you may need to adjust your expectations regarding square footage or consider a roommate.
Are you spending your weekends browsing the boutiques at Mayfaire Town Center, or are you taking free walks around Greenfield Lake Park? Your "fun money" budget changes everything. If you enjoy craft breweries and frequent dining out, you need to pad your salary requirement by another $5,000 to $10,000 annually.
The calculation above assumes you don't have massive student loans or credit card debt. If you're paying $400 a month in student loans, that "livable salary" jumps up immediately.
If you're a single parent or have a partner who doesn't work, the costs skyrocket, primarily due to childcare. In New Hanover County, childcare can easily cost $800 to $1,200 per month per child.
Living in a coastal city doesn't have to break the bank if you're smart about it.
Wilmington is a beautiful place to call home, offering a mix of beach vibes and city convenience. While the cost of living has risen, it remains more affordable than many other major coastal cities. A single person generally needs a salary between $50,000 and $60,000 to live comfortably, afford a quality apartment, and enjoy what the city has to offer without financial stress.
If you're ready to make the move and want to see what a livable luxury lifestyle looks like, we are here to help you get settled.
Contact the team at Oasis at Riverlights at (910) 631-5465 to schedule a tour and see how comfortable coastal living can be.