AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Wilmington, NC — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Wilmington neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,450/mo
Median Rent
119,736
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Wilmington? What Renters Need to Know

Wilmington's cost of living is near the national average. Median rent is about $1,450/month.

Quick Facts

Population 119,736
Median Rent $1,450/mo
Top Employer New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,450 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Wilmington median rent is $50 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Wilmington is New Hanover Regional Medical Center, making the Historic Downtown area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Wilmington

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Historic Downtown

Score: 88/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 82
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 7/10
#2

Wrightsville Beach

Score: 86/100
Safety A
Walk Score 55
Avg Rent $1,900
Schools 7/10
#3

Mayfaire

Score: 84/100
Safety A
Walk Score 48
Avg Rent $1,550
Schools 8/10

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#4

Landfall

Score: 82/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 22
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 8/10
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#5

Monkey Junction

Score: 80/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 35
Avg Rent $1,350
Schools 7/10
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#6

Porters Neck

Score: 78/100
Safety A
Walk Score 25
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 8/10
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#7

Castle Hayne

Score: 76/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 20
Avg Rent $1,300
Schools 7/10
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#8

Carolina Beach

Score: 74/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 52
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 7/10
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See All 8 Wilmington Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Wilmington Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Wilmington renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Wilmington.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Wilmington properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Wilmington

What is the cost of living in Wilmington, NC?

Wilmington's cost of living is near the national average. Median rent is about $1,450/month. Beach proximity and mild climate attract relocators.

What are the best neighborhoods?

Historic Downtown is walkable and charming. Wrightsville Beach is premium coastal living. Mayfaire and Landfall offer upscale suburban options.

Is Wilmington a good place to retire?

Excellent for retirees. Mild winters, beach access, affordable healthcare, no state tax on Social Security, and a vibrant cultural scene.

What is there to do?

Wrightsville Beach, Riverwalk, USS North Carolina Battleship, Cape Fear Museum, the Screen Gems movie studios, and a thriving restaurant scene.

How is the job market?

Healthcare, UNCW, film industry (EUE/Screen Gems), tourism, and a growing tech presence. GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy has a significant presence.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.