Let the numbers do the talking.
Leland, NC vs Wilmington, NC
Leland, NC vs Wilmington, NC: What the data shows
Leland, NC is in Leland, 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 — $130,300 less than Leland, NC's $350,000. WYLT rates Leland, 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.
Leland, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Leland, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Wilmington, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Leland, NC has Low flood risk and Wilmington, NC has High flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Wilmington, NC has the higher school rating — Leland, NC rates 6.2/10 and Wilmington, NC rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Leland, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $350K | $220K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $80K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 151 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 | 6.2/10 | 6.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersPeople looking for a quiet living environment | Boating familiesWater‑sport enthusiastsAffordable starter‑home buyers |
Bottom line
For a quiet living environment with nearby schools and a relatively stable neighborhood, Leland is a better choice. For those prioritizing water access and a lower home price but willing to accept higher flood risk and moderate crime, Wilmington may be a compromise. Families with children, however, should weigh the potential risks in Wilmington more heavily due to lower walkability and mixed safety records.
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