Wrightsville Beach, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,665
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$151,563/yr
-9.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,886
-1.4% year-over-year change

Wrightsville Beach population

How many people live in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is home to 2,665 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.9% of Wrightsville Beach locals are male, and 44.1% are female.

Total population
2,665
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.9%
1,489
Female
44.1%
1,176
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,489 55.9% 0.1%
Female 1,176 44.1% -1.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Wrightsville Beach is 58, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.8% are children under 15, then 5.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.6% of the population, while another 32.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 32.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
58
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.8%
15 to 24
5.8%
25 to 44
18.6%
45 to 64
32.6%
Over 65
32.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 289 10.8% -1.0%
15 to 24 154 5.8% -14.0%
25 to 44 496 18.6% 1.9%
45 to 64 870 32.6% -3.0%
Over 65 856 32.1% 3.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Wrightsville Beach, 93.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 96.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,485 93.2% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 138 5.2% 9.5%
Non-citizens 42 1.6% 50.0%
Racial breakdown
White
96.3%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 2,567 96.3%
Black or African American 14 0.5%
Asian 9 0.3%
Two or more races 75 2.8%

Households in Wrightsville Beach

A peek inside Wrightsville Beach households

Wrightsville Beach has 1,306 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.7% are families, while the remaining 38.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,306
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
500
Family households
806
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 500 38.3% 3.7%
Family households 806 61.7% 1.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Wrightsville Beach

The housing landscape of Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach's housing consists of 2,886 units, with 42.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,886
-1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,230 42.6%
1 unit, attached 343 11.9%
2 units 584 20.2%
3 or 4 units 87 3%
5 to 9 units 272 9.4%
10 to 19 units 84 2.9%
20 to 49 units 143 5%
50 or more units 143 5%
Homes built since 2020
15
-11.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wrightsville Beach

In Wrightsville Beach, the median construction year is 1978. About 8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 230 8% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 135 4.7% -5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 384 13.3% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 115 4% 30.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 688 23.8% -8.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 641 22.2% 0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 210 7.3% -27.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 331 11.5% 15.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 137 4.8% 38.4%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.5% -11.8%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Wrightsville Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 1,306 occupied housing units in Wrightsville Beach, 80.8% are owner-occupied, while 19.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 54.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,306
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
251
Owner occupied
1,055
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 251 19.2% 3.3%
Owner occupied 1,055 80.8% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
54.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Wrightsville Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Wrightsville Beach come to a median of $2,185 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,336.

Median housing costs per month
$2,185/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Wrightsville Beach
$2,336/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach education at a glance

About 12.2% of the population in Wrightsville Beach went to high school, while 10% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 46.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 24.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 285 12.2% -10.1%
College diploma 233 10% 12.6%
Associate degree 157 6.8% 1.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,085 46.6% 0.7%
Graduate degree 566 24.3% 1.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Wrightsville Beach

How much people earn in Wrightsville Beach

The average annual household income in Wrightsville Beach was $208,055 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $151,563, reflecting a -9.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wrightsville Beach
$208,055/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wrightsville Beach
$151,563/year
-9.4% year-over-year change

Wrightsville Beach income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $220,370 overall. Overall, 96% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $220,370 2.3%
Over 65 $79,821 -17.2%
Above poverty level
2,532
Below poverty level
105
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,532 96% -0.2%
Below poverty level 105 4% 11.7%

Average renter income in Wrightsville Beach

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wrightsville Beach, their median household income was $120,288 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 23.3%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$120,288
Rent-to-income ratio
23.3%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Wrightsville Beach

Workforce and job types in Wrightsville Beach

The job market in Wrightsville Beach is powered by 1,331 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 91.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 8.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 27.7% run their own businesses, 60.5% are employed by private companies, and 9.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,331
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
1,220
Blue collar
111
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,220 91.7% 0.1%
Blue collar 111 8.3% -5.1%
Employer type
Self employees
27.7%
Private companies
60.5%
Governmental workers
9.3%
Not for profit companies
2.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 369 27.7% 1.6%
Private companies 805 60.5% 2.8%
Governmental workers 124 9.3% -8.2%
Not for profit companies 33 2.5% -40.0%
Unemployment rate
0.4%
-66.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wrightsville Beach stands at 0.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Wrightsville Beach

How people get around in Wrightsville Beach

Commuting methods vary: 70.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 943 70.2% -6.4%
Taxicab 6 0.4% -14.3%
Walk 9 0.7% -57.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Wrightsville Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28480 2,776 1,360 $172,500 $211,703

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FAQs about Wrightsville Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Wrightsville Beach?

Wrightsville Beach has a total population of 2,665 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wrightsville Beach?

The gender ratio in Wrightsville Beach is as follows:
  • 55.9% males (1,489 residents)
  • 44.1% females (1,176 residents)

What is the median age in Wrightsville Beach?

The median age in Wrightsville Beach is 58.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wrightsville Beach?

The age distribution in Wrightsville Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.8% (289 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 5.8% (154 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.6% (496 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 32.6% (870 residents)
  • Over 65: 32.1% (856 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wrightsville Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wrightsville Beach is as follows:
  • White: 96.3% (2,567 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (14 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (75 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in Wrightsville Beach are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.2% of the population in Wrightsville Beach.

How many housing units are there in Wrightsville Beach?

There are 2,886 housing units in Wrightsville Beach, reflecting a -1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Wrightsville Beach and what is the average household size?

Wrightsville Beach has a total of 1,306 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wrightsville Beach?

Wrightsville Beach has a median household income of $151,563, representing a -9.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Wrightsville Beach?

The employment rate is 99.6% in Wrightsville Beach, with a workforce of 1,331 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 91.7% (1,220 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 8.3% (111 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 27.7% (369 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.5% (805 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.3% (124 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.5% (33 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025