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Wilmington, NC Real Estate: Why Move to Wilmington?

This is a city with a lot to love -- from business and cultural opportunities to a beautiful climate and beaches. The time's never been better to buy real estate in Wilmington, NC!

If you're considering moving to Wilmington, you're in good company. Since the 1990s, Wilmington has gained recognition as one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. and as a center for business and career growth. But it's not all work in Wilmington - in this culturally rich coastal town, Wilmington NC real estate owners benefit from beautiful views, a balmy climate and a vibrant nightlife. With a healthy housing market, buyers here have their choice of beautiful Wilmington, NC new home communities in addition to well-established neighborhoods and real estate properties of every price range.

Shopping real estate listings in Wilmington, NC? Read on to learn more about your new hometown.

Wilmington, NC at a glance

Located in North Carolina's New Hanover County, Wilmington is a port city bordered by the Cape Fear River to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Historic downtown Wilmington is only minutes away from nearby beach communities including Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach and Carolina Beach. The eighth most populous city in North Carolina, Wilmington boasts one of the lowest tax rates in the state, as well as a young (and rapidly growing) population. The city is home to over 543 acres of parks - which, considering the mild winters and lengthy springs, can be enjoyed virtually year-round. The beautiful beaches, scenery and climate are just a few of the many reasons Wilmington, NC real estate buyers choose this area.

Wilmington history

Wilmington's rich history contributes to its cultural appeal. Incorporated in 1739, Wilmington's ports and railroads helped it remain North Carolina's largest town through the early 1900s. This early prosperity is evident today in the city's large historic district, which features such landmarks as the Sir Water Wilmington hotel, restored City Market, the Cotton Exchange of Wilmington, The Confederate Memorial, The Bellamy Mansion, The Murchison Building and The George Davis Monument. The World War II battleship USS North Carolina is now a war memorial and on display across from Wilmington's downtown port area.

In 2008, The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Wilmington one of the trust's Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Wilmington's other historic attractions include the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, the Fort Fisher Historic Area, the Latimer House Museum, the Wilmington Railroad Museum and the Sunset Park Historic District. Wilmington is also home to many historic religious buildings including the St. James Episcopal Church, the St. Mary Catholic Church, the First Presbyterian Church and the Temple of Israel, North Carolina's oldest synagogue.

Wilmington: A cultural hub on the North Carolina Coast

Make yourself at home in the hometown of famous names like Michael Jordan, Sugar Ray Leonard, Minnie Evans, Meadowlark Lemon and Alge Crumpler! Wilmington's active cultural scene includes a winning combination of fine arts, sporting events, museums, shopping districts and diverse musical offerings. Sports fan? The Port City is home to the Wilmington Hammerheads USL soccer team and the Charlotte Bobcats training camp, as well as numerous college teams. Lovers of the fine arts can enjoy The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra as well as numerous theaters, including UNC Wilmington's Cultural Arts Building, the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, the Opera House Theater and The Cape Fear Playhouse. Music buff? Wilmington's many music festivals and venues entertain fans of jazz, blues, soul, Americana and other genres alike.

Wilmington's Growing Film Industry

With its beautiful scenery and business-friendly economy, it's no wonder Wilmington features a rapidly growing film industry. Screen Gems Studios, the largest U.S. television and movie production facility outside of California, has made its home in Wilmington since 1984. As Wilmington has grown into a major center of TV and film production, numerous TV series and movies have been produced here, including: A Walk To Remember, Divine Secrets of the Va-Va Sisterhood, Blue Velvet, Empire Records, Cape Fear, The Crow, Nights in Rodanthe, Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, Message in a Bottle, Mat/ock, Dawson's Creek, One Tree Hill and Eastbound & Down. Wilmington also hosts the Cucalorus, a nationally recognized independent film festival.

Careers in Wilmington, NC

Ranked as one of Forbes' 2010 Best Places for Business and Careers as well as Fortune Small Business Magazine's Best Places for a Start-Up, Wilmington has a reputation for getting the job done. Its strong economy is thanks to notable film and tourism business, as well as a healthy industrial base that includes electrical, medical and telecommunications equipment, pharmaceuticals and clothing.

Schools & universities in Wilmington, NC

For college students, families with children and adults interested in continuing education, Wilmington presents world-class educational opportunities. The city is home to UNC Wilmington, Cape Fear Community College, Shaw University satellite campus and Mount Olive College satellite campus, providing a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate and adult learning programs. Wilmington's public schools are run by the New Hanover County Public School System. There are also a wide range of choices for families interested in private school and magnet schools. Learn more about Wilmington schools.

Real Estate Wilmington NC

New homes, luxury homes, beach homes, townhomes - whether you're a first-time or move-up buyer, you'll find your dream real estate property in Wilmington, NC! Beautiful Wilmington real estate and homes for sale span every price range and every design preference. Don't know where to start? Call the Wilmington nc realtors at CENTURY 21 Sweyer& Associates. As the #1 CENTURY 21 realty firm in North Carolina, we've helped Wilmington NC homes shoppers find their dream properties for over 20 years. When it comes to Wilmington real estate, no one knows it belter! Our experienced Wilmington, NC REAL TORSŪ live in and love the North Carolina coast from Southport up through Wilmington, Topsail, Jacksonville and Atlantic Beach.

Come home to one of the healthiest housing markets in the U.S., as ranked by Builder Magazine! Contact us today to learn more about Wilmington real estate, communities and neighborhoods as Wilmington NC homes for sale.