Retirement Lists

Wilmington, North Carolina

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Aerial view of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, showcasing urban architecture and skyline.
Overall fit
Strong3.7 / 5
Care access
Excellent
Safety
Good2.7 / 5
Climate
Very Good3.7 / 5
Daily life
2.2%

Is Wilmington a good place to retire?

Healthcare access is a real strength here, and the weather is comfortable through much of the year. The monthly budget is worth a closer look.

What it may cost

Start with the local estimate. Traveler and couple budgets show how the monthly total can change.

Local monthly estimate

$3,200

Traveler estimate
$4,535
Couple estimate
$4,601
Typical 1BR rent
$1,240
Cost pressure
Moderate
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Everyday life

Nearby air service can make family visits simpler. There is an established 50+ community.

35.5%

Residents age 50+

Walkability
Good

3.1 / 5

Some errands may work on foot; a car may still be useful.

Median broadband
409 Mbps

Plenty for video calls and streaming.

Family visits
Airport connected visit
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Getting the care you need

The care picture looks excellent as a starting point. Country-level life expectancy is about 78.9 years.

4

Hospitals nearby

Healthcare access
Excellent
Country life expectancy
About 78.9 years
Primary care
Good
Pharmacy access
Excellent
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Understanding safety

Violent and property crime tell a similar story.

Overall safety

Good

2.7 / 5

Violent crime
Good
Property crime
Moderate
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Living through the seasons

Both seasons look comfortable overall.

Overall climate comfort

Very Good3.7 / 5

Summer

87°F

Average high

18 days/year above 90°F

4.1 / 5 · Very Good

Winter

44°F

Average low

7 days/year below freezing

3.9 / 5 · Very Good

Air quality

Excellent

4.7 / 5

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Retirement fit

Why it may fit

A move feels more comfortable when care, costs, seasons, and the places you go each day work together.

Reasons it may fit

  • Healthcare access is rated excellent.
  • 4 hospitals within 12 km are nearby.
  • Primary care access is rated good.

What to plan for

  • The local monthly estimate is $3,200, including a typical 1BR rent of $1,240.
  • Summer comfort is rated very good; the average summer high is Warm · 87°F and 18 days/year are above 90°F.
  • Review both crime measures: Good for violent crime and Moderate for property crime.

Questions retirees ask

What should I budget for retirement in Wilmington?

The current local-resident estimate is $3,200 per month, with a typical 1BR rent of $1,240. Treat it as a planning starting point and compare the detailed cost categories with your own housing, travel, and healthcare needs.

How is healthcare access in Wilmington?

Healthcare access is rated excellent, with 4 hospitals within 12 km nearby. Primary care access is rated good. Insurance, appointment availability, and the drive from home still matter.

What are the seasons like in Wilmington?

Summer comfort is very good, with an average high of Warm · 87°F and 18 days/year above 90°F. Winter comfort is very good, with an average low of 44°F / 7°C.

Could this place work for you?

People who value easy access to care and comfortable winters may find a lot to like here. Before adding it to your shortlist, take a closer look at the monthly budget and property crime.

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Sources

These sources list the public figures used for Wilmington. Local context links describe its parks, food, culture, history, and other place specific details.

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