Let the numbers do the talking.
Clayton, NC vs Wilmington, NC
Clayton, NC vs Wilmington, NC: What the data shows
Clayton, NC is in Clayton, 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 — $150,300 less than Clayton, NC's $370,000. WYLT rates Clayton, NC as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Wilmington, NC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Clayton, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Clayton, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Wilmington, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Clayton, NC has Low flood risk and Wilmington, NC has High flood risk.
Clayton, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Clayton, NC scores 25/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Wilmington, NC's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Clayton, NC has the higher school rating — Clayton, NC rates 8.2/10 and Wilmington, NC rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Clayton, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $370K | $220K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $90K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 25/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 28 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 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | Families with young childrenPeople who value good schoolsThose who want a safe and quiet area | Boating familiesWater‑sport enthusiastsAffordable starter‑home buyers |
Bottom line
For families with young children who value good schools and a safe area, Clayton is the stronger option. However, for boating families or those seeking waterfront living on a budget, Wilmington's affordability and access to water may outweigh its drawbacks, but they should carefully consider the increased flood risk and crime rates. Ultimately, the choice will come down to prioritizing amenities and lifestyle over safety and educational quality.
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