Wilmington is a port city and the county seat of New Hanover County in coastal southeastern North Carolina, United States. With a population of 123,207 as of the 2020 census, it is the eighth most populous city in the state. Wilmington is the principal city of the Wilmington metropolitan area, a metropolitan statistical area that includes New Hanover and Pender counties in southeastern North Carolina, which has a population of over 263,776 people.
Wilmington was settled by European Americans along the Cape Fear River. The city was named after Spencer Compton who was the Earl of Wilmington. Its historic downtown has a 1.75 mile Riverwalk, developed as a tourist attraction in the late 20th century. In 2014 Wilmington’s riverfront was named the “Best American Riverfront” by readers of USA Today.[1]
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Wilmington was 123,207 making it the 8th largest city in North Carolina. Wilmington has seen steady population growth, with an increase of over 20% since the 2010 census. The racial makeup of the city is 68% white, 19% African American, 8% Hispanic/Latino, 4% Asian and 1% other races.
The median age in Wilmington is 34 years old. Over 18% of the population is aged 18 to 29 years, reflecting the presence of the University of North Carolina Wilmington campus in the city. Wilmington has more women at 52.2% compared to 47.8% men.
Over 85% of Wilmington residents have a high school degree or higher. And 33% have a bachelor’s degree or higher which is above the national average. This highlights the well educated workforce available in the city.
Economy and Major Employers
The economy of Wilmington, North Carolina relies heavily on manufacturing, healthcare, finance, insurance and retail trade. The major employers in the city are:
- New Hanover Regional Medical Center
- General Electric
- Corning Inc.
- Verizon Wireless
- PPD
- University of North Carolina Wilmington
- New Hanover County Schools
- Cape Fear Community College
- Walmart
- Duke Energy
Healthcare, education, finance and manufacturing employ over 70% of workers in Wilmington. The major manufacturing presence comes from General Electric’s Global Nuclear Fuel plant which manufactures fuel for nuclear reactors.[2]
Other major industries are retail trade, construction, and tourism. The scenic Cape Fear coastline and historic riverfront make Wilmington a popular tourist destination. The tourism industry brings in over $500 million in annual revenue for the local economy.[3]
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the top attractions and landmarks in Wilmington, NC include:
- Battleship North Carolina – One of the most visited attractions, this decommissioned World War II battleship is docked on the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington. [4]
- Cape Fear Serpentarium – Museum with displays of reptiles, amphibians, and other animals like crocodiles, giant tortoises, and piranhas. [5]
- Airlie Gardens – Historic public garden with walking trails, lakes, and sculptures set on 67 acres. Home to the iconic Airlie Oak tree estimated to be over 500 years old.[6]
- Wilmington Riverwalk – Stretching 1.75 miles along Cape Fear River, the riverwalk features shops, restaurants, and scenic views of the waterfront.
- Thalian Hall – Historic 1858 theatre that hosts performances and is home to the Thalian Association Community Theatre.[7]
- Poplar Grove Plantation – Peanut plantation from 1850 featuring a mansion house, slave quarters, and reconstructed smokehouse.[8]
- Wilmington Railroad Museum – Museum displaying locomotive steam engines, rail cars, and exhibits on the area’s railroad history.[9]
Sports
Wilmington is home to several professional sports teams and university athletic programs.
The Wilmington Hammerheads are a professional soccer team that plays in the USL League One. They play their home games at the Legion Stadium.[10]
The UNC Wilmington Seahawks are the athletic teams representing the University of North Carolina Wilmington. They compete in the NCAA Division I Colonial Athletic Association and have 17 varsity teams.[11]
Other popular amateur sports teams in Wilmington include the Wilmington Sharks baseball team and the Port City Roller Derby roller derby league.[12]
Conclusion
In summary, Wilmington is a historic port city with a growing population of over 120,000 in southeastern North Carolina. It has a diversified economy led by manufacturing, healthcare and education employers. With an attractive downtown riverfront and several cultural attractions, tourism also provides a significant economic impact. Wilmington offers the amenities of a large city while maintaining its small town charm.