North Carolina · Population 118,578 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Wilmington
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Wilmington has a cost of living close to the national average, offering a balanced mix of expenses and amenities. With a cost index of 100 (where 100 equals the national median), Wilmington residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,311/month while earning a median household income of $63,900/year.
The median home value in Wilmington, NC is $350,300, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,371 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.6% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.
North Carolina has a moderate income tax rate of 4.5%. Combined with a 4.75% sales tax rate and 0.8% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Wilmington.
Common questions about living costs in Wilmington
Similar-sized cities to compare