Let the numbers do the talking.
Chapel Hill, NC vs Wilmington, NC
Chapel Hill, NC vs Wilmington, NC: What the data shows
Chapel Hill, NC is in Chapel Hill, NC while Wilmington, NC is in Wilmington, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Wilmington, NC is the more affordable option at $219,700 median — $373,200 less than Chapel Hill, NC's $592,900. WYLT rates Chapel Hill, 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.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Chapel Hill, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wilmington, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chapel Hill, NC has Low flood risk and Wilmington, NC has High flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Chapel Hill, NC has the higher school rating — Chapel Hill, NC rates 7.1/10 and Wilmington, NC rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Chapel Hill, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $593K | $220K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $98K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 42 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | College studentsAcademicsFamilies with high income | Boating familiesWater‑sport enthusiastsAffordable starter‑home buyers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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