Let the numbers do the talking.
Aberdeen, NC vs Wilmington, NC
Aberdeen, NC vs Wilmington, NC: What the data shows
Aberdeen, NC is in Aberdeen, NC while Wilmington, NC is in Wilmington, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Aberdeen, NC is the more affordable option at $150,000 median — $69,700 less than Wilmington, NC's $219,700. WYLT rates Aberdeen, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wilmington, NC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Aberdeen, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Aberdeen, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Wilmington, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aberdeen, NC has Low flood risk and Wilmington, NC has High flood risk.
Aberdeen, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Aberdeen, NC scores 0.5/100 (car-dependent) versus Wilmington, NC's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Wilmington, NC has the higher school rating — Aberdeen, NC rates N/A and Wilmington, NC rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Aberdeen, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $150K ✓ Lower price | $220K |
| Median Rent | $800 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $45K | $47K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 0.5/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 0.2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 90 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | 6.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First-time homebuyersFamilies with young childrenCommuters to Raleigh | Boating familiesWater‑sport enthusiastsAffordable starter‑home buyers |
Bottom line
For first-time homebuyers and commuters to the Raleigh area, Aberdeen is a more suitable option due to its lower home prices and longer-term affordability. However, for boating families and water-sport enthusiasts seeking waterfront living, Wilmington's coastal access and potential for long-term value outweigh some of its drawbacks, but they should be prepared for higher costs and risks. If you value school quality and shorter commutes, Aberdeen edges out Wilmington. But if affordable, waterfront living is your top priority and you're willing to accept trade-offs, Wilmington might still be the better choice.
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