Leland living: Why so many people are choosing Wilmington's fastest-growing neighbor

Leland has spent the last decade transforming from a quiet Brunswick County town into one of the fastest-growing communities in North Carolina.

Located just across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, the town offers a lifestyle that appeals to families, retirees and professionals alike. Residents enjoy newer neighborhoods, growing shopping and dining options, easy commuting access and a location that puts both city amenities and coastal adventures within reach.

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: Leland is one of the fastest-growing communities in North Carolina, with more than 34,000 residents. The town offers a blend of suburban convenience, outdoor recreation and small-town charm.
• The details: Residents enjoy easy access to Wilmington, Brunswick County beaches and the Cape Fear River. Popular neighborhoods include Magnolia Greens and Leland Town Center.
• The more you know: Golf courses, parks, walking trails and waterfront recreation are major draws for newcomers.

For many newcomers, Leland offers the sweet spot between convenience and breathing room.

At a glance

• Population: 34,451 (2024 estimate)
• County: Brunswick County
• ZIP code: 28451
• Area codes: 910 and 472
• Elevation: 26 feet
• Named after: Leland Adams
• Distance to Downtown Wilmington: About 10-15 minutes
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Why people are moving to Leland

As housing prices have continued to rise in many coastal communities, Leland has become an attractive alternative for buyers looking for more home, more yard and more value.

The town's location allows residents to enjoy many of Wilmington's amenities while living in a community that still maintains a more relaxed pace.

Residents enjoy:

• Quick access to downtown Wilmington
• Convenient routes to Brunswick County beaches
• New residential communities
• Expanding retail and dining options
• Golf courses and outdoor recreation
• A growing job market throughout the region
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A town surrounded by nature

One of Leland's biggest advantages is its connection to the outdoors.

According to Visit Leland, the community offers "a rare mix of modern expectations with a respect and appreciation of its natural surroundings and small-town charm."

The area is known for:

• Winding creeks shaded by live oaks and Spanish moss
• Access to the Brunswick and Cape Fear rivers
• Inland fishing opportunities
• Boating and paddling
• Nature trails and green spaces
• Scenic coastal landscapes
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Whether you're launching a boat for an afternoon on the water or simply enjoying a walk through a neighborhood trail system, outdoor recreation is part of everyday life here.

Popular neighborhoods

Leland offers housing options for a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Magnolia Greens

One of the area's best-known communities, Magnolia Greens is centered around a popular golf course and features amenities that appeal to active adults, families and retirees.

Highlights include:

• Golf course living
• Clubhouse amenities
• Swimming pools
• Tennis and pickleball courts
• Walking-friendly streets
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Leland Town Center

Located near shopping, restaurants and community amenities, Leland Town Center places residents close to everyday conveniences while maintaining a neighborhood feel.

Growing new-home communities

Many newcomers are drawn to Leland's newer subdivisions, where homes often feature modern floor plans, community amenities and more square footage than similarly priced properties closer to the coast.

Golf is a way of life

For many residents, golf is one of Leland's biggest lifestyle perks.

The community is surrounded by highly regarded courses and sits within easy driving distance of some of southeastern North Carolina's most popular golf destinations.

Why golfers love Leland:

• Multiple nearby courses
• Year-round playing weather
• Active golf communities
• Scenic coastal settings
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Close to everything

One of the biggest reasons people choose Leland is location.

Approximate drive times:

• Downtown Wilmington: 10-15 minutes
• Wrightsville Beach: 25-35 minutes
• Carolina Beach: 30-40 minutes
• Southport: 30 minutes
• Oak Island: 35 minutes
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Residents often describe Leland as being close enough to enjoy everything the region offers without having to live in the middle of the busiest areas.

Community growth continues

Leland's population grew from 13,527 residents in 2010 to 23,504 residents in 2020. Today, the population is estimated at more than 34,000 residents, making it the largest municipality in Brunswick County.

That growth has brought:

• New housing developments
• Expanded infrastructure
• Additional shopping and dining options
• Increased community amenities
• New opportunities for businesses and residents
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Despite that growth, many residents say the town has maintained the welcoming atmosphere that attracted them in the first place.

Is Leland right for you?

Leland may be a good fit if you're looking for:

• More house for your money
• Easy access to Wilmington
• Outdoor recreation opportunities
• Golf and active-adult amenities
• Newer neighborhoods
• A balance of suburban convenience and coastal living
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For many residents, that's exactly what makes Leland one of the most desirable places to live in the Cape Fear region. With room to grow, easy access to the coast and a strong sense of community, it's easy to see why so many people are choosing to call Leland home.