2025 Brunswick County Real Estate Market Report: Insights, Trends, and Opportunities
As we close out 2025, Brunswick County, NC, continues to solidify its position as one of the Southeast's most desirable destinations for retirees, second-home buyers, and families seeking coastal living. Located along North Carolina's southern coast, between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, the county offers a unique blend of pristine beaches, world-class golf, historic towns, and modern conveniences—all with low taxes and a laid-back lifestyle. This report recaps key 2025 trends in home sales, values, and community growth, based on data from sources like the Brunswick County Association of Realtors, Zillow, Redfin, and local market analyses. We'll also highlight the top 10-12 communities that stood out for growth, sales volume, value increases, and new developments. Finally, we'll touch on what to expect in 2026 and why now could be an opportune time to consider a move, without the hard sell.
2025 Market Overview: A Balanced Year of Steady Growth
2025 was a year of stabilization and moderate growth in Brunswick County's real estate market, following several years of rapid price escalation. The county saw a healthy balance return, with inventory levels remaining manageable and serious buyers taking advantage of slightly more options. Total residential sales volume through October 2025 reached $2,534,151,185, an 8.6% increase from the same period in 2024. Year-to-date (YTD) through late 2025, sales volume stood at approximately $2.91 billion, representing 5,883 closed units—a slight uptick from 5,729 units in 2024. This reflects ongoing demand driven by population growth (Brunswick County grew by about 5% in 2025, the fastest in North Carolina) and relocations from northern states.
Median home prices rose modestly but steadily. The county-wide median sales price climbed to around $405,000 by November 2025, up 7.4% from November 2024. Earlier in the year, January's median was $483,051 (up 2.3% YOY), while June hit $389,500 (up 9.1% YOY). Overall, average home values hovered at $403,094, down just 0.6% from the previous year, indicating a cooling from the double-digit gains of prior years but still positive appreciation. Luxury sales surged, with 22 homes over $3 million sold in 2025 (more than double 2024's total), highlighting demand for high-end properties in gated communities.
Inventory remained tight but improved slightly, giving buyers more negotiating power. Homes under $500,000 saw sales volume of $1.37 billion YTD, up from $1.34 billion in 2024, while properties over $500,000 reached $1.54 billion. Total sales in September 2025 alone were 425 units with $259,739,740 in value. The market favored serious buyers, with stabilization in prices and inventory creating opportunities for those ready to act.
The chart above illustrates the median home price fluctuations in 2025, showing a dip mid-year but an overall upward trend, reflecting market moderation.
Total sales volume also grew steadily, with YTD figures up 3.2% in units and 3.2% in value compared to 2024. This balanced environment benefited buyers, who faced less competition than in previous years, while sellers enjoyed stable appreciation. Factors like low interest rates (averaging 6.2% for 30-year mortgages in 2025) and population influx (driven by remote work and retirement trends) fueled the market, but inventory increases (up 15% YOY) prevented overheating.
As shown in the line chart, sales volume grew by 8.6% YTD through October, indicating sustained demand.
Top 10+ Communities for Growth, Home Sales, Increased Values, and Developments in 2025
Brunswick County's growth was concentrated in key communities, particularly those with golf, waterfront, and amenity-rich lifestyles. Based on 2025 data from local reports, Niche rankings, and market analyses, here are the top 10-12 standout communities for overall performance. These were selected for population/sales growth, value appreciation (up 2–9% YOY), home sales volume, and new developments (e.g., expansions, amenity additions). Growth percentages are estimated from YOY sales/inventory trends.
- Leland (Overall Town)
- Growth: 15% population/sales increase – fastest-growing in county.
- Home Sales: High volume in new subdivisions, median $400K–$500K.
- Value Increase: 7% YOY.
- Developments: New shopping at Leland Town Center, expanded trails/greenways.
- Brunswick Forest (Leland)
- Growth: 12% in sales/residents – master-planned appeal.
- Home Sales: 300+ units YTD, median $500K.
- Value Increase: 8% YOY.
- Developments: Added wellness programs, new home phases completed.
- Compass Pointe (Leland)
- Growth: 10% – gated luxury draw.
- Home Sales: 200+ units, median $550K.
- Value Increase: 9% YOY.
- Developments: Expanded clubhouse events, new pickleball courts.
- St. James Plantation (Southport)
- Growth: 8% – premium gated demand.
- Home Sales: 250+ units, median $850K.
- Value Increase: 6% YOY.
- Developments: Marina expansions, new beach club amenities.
- Ocean Ridge Plantation (Ocean Isle Beach)
- Growth: 7% – golf-focused relocations.
- Home Sales: 200+ units, median $700K.
- Value Increase: 7% YOY.
- Developments: Upgraded Big Cats courses, new beach club features.
- Sea Trail Plantation (Sunset Beach)
- Growth: 6% – coastal value play.
- Home Sales: 150+ units, median $450K.
- Value Increase: 5% YOY.
- Developments: Golf course renovations, new community events space.
- Magnolia Greens (Leland)
- Growth: 5% – affordable golf appeal.
- Home Sales: 180+ units, median $400K.
- Value Increase: 6% YOY.
- Developments: Expanded fitness center, new pool areas.
- Rivers Edge (Shallotte)
- Growth: 4% – riverfront serenity draw.
- Home Sales: 140+ units, median $650K.
- Value Increase: 5% YOY.
- Developments: New river access kayak launches, clubhouse updates.
- Crow Creek (Calabash)
- Growth: 3% – value gated golf.
- Home Sales: 120+ units, median $350K.
- Value Increase: 4% YOY.
- Developments: Amenity enhancements like new tennis courts.
- Thistle (Sunset Beach)
- Growth: 2% – Scottish-themed luxury.
- Home Sales: 100+ units, median $550K.
- Value Increase: 3% YOY.
- Developments: New event lawn, golf practice upgrades.
- Sandpiper Bay (Sunset Beach)
- Growth: 1% – affordable golf entry.
- Home Sales: 80+ units, median $300K.
- Value Increase: 2% YOY.
- Developments: Pool/hot tub refreshes, new BBQ areas.
- Winding River Plantation (Bolivia)
- Growth: 1% – river/golf value.
- Home Sales: 90+ units, median $450K.
- Value Increase: 2% YOY.
- Developments: Expanded trails, marina improvements.
The table below summarizes the top performers in the Brunswick County NC Real Estate Market in 2025
| Community | 2025 Growth % | Sales Volume (Units) | Value Increase % | Key 2025 Developments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leland | 15 | High (town-wide) | 7 | New shopping/greenways |
| Brunswick Forest | 12 | 300+ | 8 | New home phases/wellness |
| Compass Pointe | 10 | 200+ | 9 | New pickleball/clubhouse |
| St. James Plantation | 8 | 250+ | 6 | Marina/beach club updates |
| Ocean Ridge Plantation | 7 | 200+ | 7 | Golf/beach club upgrades |
| Sea Trail Plantation | 6 | 150+ | 5 | Golf renovations/events |
| Magnolia Greens | 5 | 180+ | 6 | Fitness/pool refreshes |
| Rivers Edge | 4 | 140+ | 5 | Kayak launches/clubhouse |
| Crow Creek | 3 | 120+ | 4 | Tennis court additions |
| Thistle | 2 | 100+ | 3 | Event lawn/golf practice |
| Sandpiper Bay | 1 | 80+ | 2 | Pool/BBQ updates |
| Winding River Plantation | 1 | 90+ | 2 | Trails/marina improvements |
This chart highlights how northern areas like Leland dominated growth, while southern coastal communities held steady in value.
The chart above shows the relative growth rates, with Leland leading the pack due to its proximity to Wilmington and new developments.
Why 2025 Was a Good Year for Buyers and Sellers
The market's balance in 2025 created opportunities for both sides. Buyers benefited from modest inventory increases (up 15% YOY), giving more negotiating room in a post-boom environment. Sellers saw consistent appreciation (average 5–7% YOY), particularly in luxury segments where 22 homes over $3 million sold (double 2024). Population growth (5% YOY, fastest in NC) fueled demand, but moderation in prices (from rapid 2022–2024 gains) prevented bubbles. Factors like stable mortgage rates (average 6.2%) and remote work trends kept relocations steady, with northern buyers (Northeast/Midwest) making up ~60% of purchases.
Brief Outlook for 2026: Continued Balance with Upside Potential
Looking ahead to 2026, Brunswick County's market is expected to maintain balance with moderate growth. Forecasts from local reports suggest 3–5% appreciation in home values, driven by ongoing population influx (projected 4% increase) and developments like new housing on 4,300 acres (up to 12,500 units). Inventory may rise slightly with new builds, favoring buyers, but luxury and waterfront segments will remain competitive. Challenges like rising insurance costs in coastal areas could slow some sales, but low taxes and amenities will keep demand strong. Overall, 2026 looks promising for those ready to act, as stabilization creates entry points before potential acceleration.
Is Now the Best Time to Secure a Home on the Southern NC Coast?
With 2025's balanced market showing stabilization after years of rapid gains, many observers note that opportunities exist for buyers who are prepared. Inventory levels, while still tight, have improved enough to provide choices without the frenzy of past years. For those considering the desirable southern NC coast including towns like Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Calabash, and Shallotte, exploring options now—before potential 2026 growth kicks in—could align with long-term goals. Of course, timing depends on personal circumstances, and consulting a local expert can help navigate the nuances without pressure.
Why Suzanne Polino is the Go-To Agent for Brunswick County Real Estate
When it comes to Brunswick County real estate, Suzanne Polino stands out as the area's trusted specialist. With years of local experience, Suzanne knows every neighborhood—from gated golf communities like St. James Plantation and Ocean Ridge Plantation to charming towns like Southport and Leland. She's helped hundreds of retirees, families and relocators find their perfect fit, offering honest insights on market trends, community perks, and potential pitfalls. Suzanne's no-pressure approach focuses on education first, ensuring clients make informed decisions. Whether you're eyeing a waterfront property or a golf-front home, her expertise in negotiations, off-market listings, and relocation guidance makes her the go-to agent for a smooth transition to coastal NC living.
Whether you’re retiring, relocating, or looking for a second home, Suzanne Polino (910-477-1378) specializes in real estate throughout Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Calabash, Southport, Oak Island, and surrounding coastal communities like St James Plantation and Winding River.
📲 Request More Information Today
Suzanne Polino, REALTOR®
Coastal NC Real Estate Specialist
📧 suzy@suzysellsnc.com
📞 (910) 477-1378
🌐 SuzysSellsNC.com
Explore Other Nearby Golf Course Communities
- Ocean Ridge Plantation – gated golf near Sunset Beach
- Sea Trail Plantation – At the base of Sunset Beach Bridge
- Crow Creek – championship golf in Calabash
- Meadowlands – active lifestyle and amenities
Download our Relocation Buyers Guide to Brunswick County, NC
Contact Me Today for a No-Pressure Strategy Conversation
In summary, 2025 was a year of healthy stabilization in Brunswick County, with steady growth in sales and values, particularly in top communities like Leland and Brunswick Forest. As 2026 approaches, the market remains attractive for those seeking coastal retirement without the extremes of past years. For personalized advice, reach out to Suzanne Polino—the expert who turns Brunswick County dreams into reality.