As a prominent coastal Carolina homebuilder and among the top home builders in Wilmington, NC, we have many clients that that relocate to the coast from all over the country. Whether they come to retire, move their family for a new job, or somewhere in between. According to United Van Line’s 2020 National Migration Study, just released, Wilmington, NC ranks as the top city in the nation for inbound moves this past year. North Carolina as a whole ranks #6.

The study intrigued us as to what prompted the influx of people. It seems that the pandemic heavily influenced the decision for many, but there were others as well. Using the reasons cited in the study, and some of our own, here are the top 10 reasons we think people choose to live in Wilmington. 

Jobs

Those coming to Wilmington in search of new jobs is the number one reason for relocating to the area, making up 37.38% of the inbound migrations. Large institutions and organizations in healthcare, education, finance, energy, research, and pharmaceuticals in the area enticed would-be employees to come south.    

Family

Family is the number two reason many chose to relocate to the area in 2020. 27.87% of those surveyed wanted to be closer to family for not only comfort and support but also for financial reasons. 

Retirement

23.93% of the inbound migrations were retirees, according to the survey. That is no surprise as many dream of living out their golden years at the beach for the calming ocean air, active seaside communities, and natural beauty that our area has to offer. 

Lifestyle

Moving to Wilmington for a lifestyle change may be the most likely reason tied to the pandemic. 15.9% of movers in the study listed Lifestyle for their move. With more people working from home, the flexibility offers the chance for a change of scenery with a slower pace and less densely populated locations.  

Health

Health comes in last and fifth place at 3.44% as the reason for moving in 2020. With award-winning healthcare services and teaching hospitals in the area, those who did made the right move. 

Location

Centrally located on the east coast, Wilmington is an easy trip up north or down south with its quick access to major interstates and highways and a convenient airport, Wilmington International Airport (ILM), which offers competitive service for business or leisure travel. Just a two-hour drive away, the Research Triangle Park area is home to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), renowned educational institutions, and cultural centers. 

Weather

For those looking to move to a city with milder weather, Wilmington has some of the best year-round weather in the south, with four distinct seasons and a mild fall and winter. 

Culture

Wilmington is a cultural hub boasting a spectacular art scene with plenty of galleries and the Cameron Art Museum. The historic Thalian Hall and the Wilson Center offer premier performing arts from local productions to Broadway and national touring concerts and musicals. The annual Cucalorus Film Festival draws crowds from across the country.

Beaches

Of course, they come for the beaches. From Wrightsville Beach to Carolina Beach, to a short drive to the Brunswick County and South Carolina beaches, they all offer a place to reconnect with the natural world, whether relaxing, walking, or enjoying outdoor activities. Wilmington is fortunate to be in close proximity to dozens of beautiful beaches.

Riverfront

Downtown Wilmington’s award-winning riverfront on the Cape Fear was recognized by USA Today as America’s best riverfront in 2015. It is home to more than 200 shops, restaurants, attractions, and tours, all within easy walking distance. 

Home Builders Wilmington, NC 

As one of the leading home builders in Wilmington, NC, we know what today’s buyers want, and we can help bring your vision to life. We’ve been building custom homes throughout the Carolinas for more than 20 years. Our proven process and numerous customer testimonials are testaments to what buyers can expect in a custom Hagood home. If you’d like to learn more about our custom home building services or discuss modifying an existing plan, we’d love to connect!