The Fastest Growing Neighborhoods in the Cape Fear Region (2025 Market Guide)

The Cape Fear Region—Wilmington, Brunswick County, and Pender County—continues to rank among the fastest-growing coastal areas in the Southeast. With booming development, relocation from the Northeast and Midwest, and high demand for coastal living, our market remains strong.

Below is your complete guide to the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the Cape Fear Region. Each section includes a publicly available photo, price ranges, and insight tailored to buyers, sellers, and relocation clients.

1. Leland, NC – One of the Fastest Growing Towns in North Carolina

Why Leland Is Growing

Leland continues to be one of the fastest-growing towns in the state. New communities, lower taxes, and proximity to Downtown Wilmington make it a major hotspot for relocation buyers.

Popular Neighborhoods

• Brunswick Forest
• Mallory Creek Plantation
• Waterford of the Carolinas
• Compass Pointe (gated, resort-style)

Price Ranges

• Townhomes: $275,000 – $350,000
• Single-Family Homes: $350,000 – $550,000
• Luxury & Golf: $650,000 – $1.2M+

2. Ogden, NC – Coastal Convenience & Rapid Growth

Why Ogden Is Booming

Located just minutes from Wrightsville Beach and Mayfaire, Ogden has become one of the Wilmington area’s most in-demand communities. Excellent schools and a mix of established and new neighborhoods make it ideal for families.

Popular Ogden Areas

• Plantation Landing
• Marsh Oaks
• Middle Sound Loop
• Ogden Business District neighborhoods

Price Ranges

• Starter Homes: $350,000 – $450,000
• Mid-Range: $500,000 – $650,000
• Waterfront/Luxury: $1M+

3. Porters Neck, Wilmington NC – Luxury Meets Growth

Why Porters Neck Stands Out

Porters Neck is one of Wilmington’s strongest luxury-growth sectors, known for gated communities, golf courses, and water access. Appreciation remains high due to location and prestige.

Popular Communities

• Porters Neck Plantation
• Blue Point
• New luxury construction in the northern corridor
• Figure Eight adjacent luxury areas

Price Ranges

• Entry-Level: $325,000 – $400,000
• Mid-Range: $550,000 – $900,000
• Waterfront/Luxury: $1.1M – $5M+

4. Hampstead, NC – The Next Coastal Boomtown

Why Hampstead Is Exploding

The new Hampstead Bypass and highly rated Topsail schools are fueling rapid growth. Hampstead offers more space, newer subdivisions, and quick access to beaches and Wilmington.

Popular Neighborhoods

• Scotts Hill Village
• WyndWater
• Deerfield
• Topsail Greens

Price Ranges

• Entry Homes: $325,000 – $425,000
• Mid-Range: $450,000 – $650,000
• New Construction/Luxury: $700,000 – $900,000+

5. Carolina Beach & Kure Beach – Growing Coastal & Investment Markets

Why These Beach Towns Are Thriving

Pleasure Island remains one of the area’s strongest real estate markets thanks to tourism, revitalization, and high rental demand. Both full-time residents and investors flock to Carolina Beach and Kure Beach for coastal living and income properties.

Popular Neighborhoods

• Carolina Beach North End
• Oceana Subdivision
• Kure Beach Village
• Seawatch (luxury community)

Price Ranges

• Condos/Townhomes: $350,000 – $700,000
• Single-Family Homes: $650,000 – $1.2M
• Oceanfront/Luxury: $1.5M – $3.5M+

Cape Fear Region Growth Snapshot

Thinking About Moving to the Cape Fear Region?

Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or searching for a coastal lifestyle, I’m here to help you navigate the fastest-growing markets in Wilmington, Leland, Hampstead, and our beach communities.

Contact Chris Meek, REALTOR® – Century 21 Vanguard
Phone/Text: (910) 231-1553
Website: ChrisMeekRealty.com
Tagline: Making Carolina Dreams a Reality