Let the numbers do the talking.
Raleigh, NC vs Wilmington, NC
Raleigh, NC vs Wilmington, NC: What the data shows
Raleigh, NC is in Raleigh, 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 — $120,300 less than Raleigh, NC's $340,000. WYLT rates Raleigh, 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.
Raleigh, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Raleigh, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Wilmington, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Raleigh, NC has Low flood risk and Wilmington, NC has High flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Raleigh, NC has the higher school rating — Raleigh, NC rates 7.5/10 and Wilmington, NC rates 6.5/10.
| Category | Raleigh, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $340K | $220K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $67K ✓ Higher income | $47K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 17/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 12 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 | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.5/10 |
| Best for | Families with young childrenProfessionals with commutable work within downtown RaleighStudents who prefer a suburban environment | Boating familiesWater‑sport enthusiastsAffordable starter‑home buyers |
Bottom line
If you're a family with young children or a professional with commutable work in downtown Raleigh, settle in Raleigh, NC. However, if you prioritize boating and water access, be prepared to accept higher costs and potential risks in Wilmington, NC. Ultimately, Raleigh offers a more balanced lifestyle, but Wilmington might be the right fit for those who can adapt to its challenges.
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