Leland

Leland, North Carolina: A Thriving Coastal Gem on the Rise

Nestled along the scenic Brunswick River in northern Brunswick County, just five minutes west of historic downtown Wilmington, Leland stands as a beacon of rapid growth and Southern charm in North Carolina's Cape Fear region. Incorporated in 1989 after a decisive vote to preserve its independence from annexation threats, Leland has evolved from a quiet railroad settlement—named after postmaster Joseph W. Gay's nephew, Leland Adams—into the state's most populous town in its county and one of its fastest-expanding municipalities. With a projected 2025 population of 34,994, Leland is growing at an impressive 6.79% annually, reflecting a 46.65% surge since the 2020 census. 

This explosive expansion mirrors broader trends, positioning Leland as a key player in Brunswick County's status as North Carolina's fastest-growing county, with a 15% population increase from 2019-2023 and a 25.99% annualized rate through 2025, ranking it among the top 50 nationwide.

As the county's largest municipality, Leland's trajectory—from a 20.4% growth spurt between 2020 and 2022 adding 4,768 residents, to a staggering 107.9% rise since 2010—highlights its appeal as an affordable, amenity-rich alternative to pricier coastal hotspots.

A Blend of Natural Beauty and Suburban Serenity
Leland's allure lies in its harmonious mix of natural splendor and modern convenience, where winding creeks draped in live oaks and Spanish moss meet expansive parks and riverfront trails. The 900-plus-acre Brunswick Nature Park, a short drive away, invites exploration of coastal wildlife habitats, hiking paths, and kayaking on the Cape Fear River, embodying the area's Low-country heritage.

Closer to home, the Brunswick Riverwalk at Belville offers scenic strolls, picnic spots, and boating access, while Leland Community Park and Westgate Nature Park provide playgrounds, sports fields, and serene green spaces for family outings. Cypress Cove Park adds to the outdoor bounty with disc golf courses and fishing piers, fostering a lifestyle that celebrates year-round mild weather and eco-adventures.

For golf enthusiasts, top-ranked courses like Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation deliver challenging play amid lush fairways, contributing to Leland's reputation as a haven for active retirees and nature lovers.

This natural backdrop supports a burgeoning tourism scene, with the Leland Tourism Development Authority promoting events that highlight the town's quaint hospitality alongside big-city amenities. From inland fishing charters on the Brunswick and Cape Fear Rivers to birdwatching in moss-shaded canopies, Leland offers unlimited getaway experiences, perfectly situated between Wilmington's historic sites and the Brunswick Islands' beaches.

A Booming Economy and Business-Friendly Horizon
Leland's economy is as dynamic as its demographics, driven by business expansion, low taxes, and strategic infrastructure that make it a magnet for relocation. North Carolina's corporate income tax—slated to drop to 2.25% in 2025 and phase out by 2030—combined with the state's flat 4.75% individual rate, bolsters Leland's appeal for entrepreneurs and remote workers.

Shovel-ready industrial sites, a streamlined permitting process, and proximity to major employers in healthcare, education, and Wilmington's "Hollywood East" film industry at Screen Gems Studios fuel job growth in sectors like logistics, light manufacturing, and tourism.

The Leland Industrial Park hosts expanding operations, while retail hubs like The Villages at Brunswick Forest—home to groceries, dining, and professional services—cater to daily needs without venturing far.

Median household incomes around $88,576 reflect this prosperity, with per capita earnings at $47,854, supporting a diverse workforce from young families to retirees.

Craft breweries, farm to table eateries and food trucks at spots like local parks add a culinary flair, while the rise of pickleball courts has earned Leland regional buzz as a hub for the sport. As Brunswick County's growth spills over, Leland's commitment to sustainable development ensures economic vitality without sacrificing its small-town roots.

Diverse Housing and Community Living
Leland's real estate market thrives on variety and value, with median home prices around $400,000—far more accessible than Wilmington's beachfront premiums—drawing first-time buyers, professionals, and empty-nesters alike.

Master-planned communities like Brunswick Forest offer 55+ resort-style living with golf, pools, and trails, while Mallory Creek Plantation provides family-oriented townhomes and ranch homes starting in the upper $200,000s, complete with clubhouses and playgrounds.

 Over 5,200 new single-family permits issued since 2010 underscore the housing boom, with monthly averages exceeding 55 in recent years, including multi-family options like apartments and villas.

Education supports this family focus, with Brunswick County Schools emphasizing college and career readiness at institutions like Belville Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Leland Middle School, and North Brunswick High School.Nearby colleges—UNC Wilmington, Brunswick Community College, and Cape Fear Community College—offer specialized training in marine science, business, and trades, enhancing workforce development.

Seamless Connectivity and Everyday Essentials
Leland's location is its superpower: 10 minutes to Wilmington's Riverwalk and Thalian Hall, 30 minutes to Wrightsville Beach, 90 minutes to Myrtle Beach, and two hours to Raleigh, all via Interstates 40, 140, and Highway 74/76.
Wilmington International Airport is just 11 miles away, easing travel. The Leland Fire/Rescue Department, with over 40 career staff and volunteer support, ensures safety, while Brunswick County handles EMS and waste services through GFL Environmental.

Cultural touches abound, from Wine & Design studios for creative nights to Leland Town Hall events, blending progress with tradition. Poverty rates hover at 18.8%, with 94.5% high school graduation and 37.8% bachelor's degrees among adults, signaling a resilient, educated populace.

Why Leland?
Leland isn't just growing—it's flourishing as North Carolina's fastest-growing town in a breakout county, offering affordable coastal living, outdoor adventures, and economic promise without the crowds. From riverfront sunsets to community pickleball rallies, it delivers a lifestyle that's equal parts serene and spirited, where Southern hospitality meets modern momentum.

Ready to join Leland's exciting chapter? Contact us today to explore properties, from suburban starters to luxury enclaves, and discover why this riverside town is the Cape Fear Coast's rising star.