The Wilmington area and its adjacent rural/suburban counties are experiencing substantial growth as both tourists and potential residents discover the desirability of vacationing and living in North Carolina 's Southern Coast. An influx of retirees and younger families, escaping from the stress of larger cities and looking for a more relaxed way of living and better quality of life, have contributed to the population surge.  

The focus typically is the area’s beaches.  However, the Cape Fear River , a wonderful downtown with many historical and cultural sites, and many other attractions throughout the area make it the destination for travelers and new residents from all over the country.  The University of North Carolina Wilmington, the state’s principal deep water port, the film industry, and a number of industrial companies including GE and Corning all contribute to a growing city with a solid economy and year round stability.  With its mild climate, recreational opportunities, tourism and industry, Wilmington has become a wonderful place to live or just visit any time of the year.