Raleigh vs. Wilmington: The Ultimate 2025 Moving Guide
Are you planning a move to the Tar Heel State but can’t decide between the bustling tech hub of the Piedmont or the laid-back charm of the coast? Choosing between Raleigh and Wilmington is one of the most common dilemmas for people relocating to North Carolina in 2025.
While both cities offer a high quality of life, they cater to very different career goals and lifestyle preferences. This guide breaks down the data on jobs, housing, education, and hidden costs to help you make the right move.
1. The Economic Landscape: Tech Hub vs. Coastal Tourism
The biggest differentiator between these two cities is the economy.
Raleigh: The Research Triangle Powerhouse
Raleigh is the anchor of the Research Triangle Park (RTP), one of the largest polycentric technological and scholastic hubs in the world. In 2025, Raleigh continues to dominate in:
- Technology & AI: With Apple and Google expanding their footprints, tech wages here outpace the state average.
- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Home to top-tier research institutions and pharmaceutical giants.
- Higher Median Income: Raleigh consistently reports higher household incomes compared to coastal regions.
Wilmington: Tourism and the “Zoom Town” Effect
Wilmington’s economy is historically rooted in tourism, the Port of Wilmington, and the film industry (EUE/Screen Gems Studios). However, in 2025, it has seen a massive rise in remote workers. If you have a job you can take with you, the allure of the beach is strong, but local high-paying corporate roles are fewer than in the Triangle.
2. Real Estate and The “Insurance Gap”
Understanding the true cost of housing in 2025 requires looking beyond the listing price.
Housing Trends
As of December 2025, the median home price in Raleigh is approximately $455,000, reflecting a steady 2.4% year-over-year increase. In comparison, Wilmington’s median home price sits around $423,000, though premium properties near Wrightsville Beach or the Intracoastal Waterway easily command seven figures.
The Hidden Cost of Coastal Living
The most significant financial difference between these cities is often found in the insurance premiums. In 2025, Wilmington homeowners frequently pay 2x to 3x more for home insurance than those in Raleigh. Due to hurricane and flood risks, the average annual premium in Wilmington has climbed to over $7,000 for many coastal ZIP codes, whereas Raleigh residents typically pay below the state average, around $2,200 annually.
3. Infrastructure, Education, and Healthcare
Top-Tier Resources in the Triangle
Families often prioritize Raleigh for the Wake County Public School System, which remains one of the most reputable in the country. Additionally, Raleigh residents live within a 30-minute drive of world-class medical facilities at Duke Health and UNC Health.
Connectivity and Travel
If you travel frequently, RDU International Airport is a major asset. In 2025, RDU has expanded its non-stop international roster, making it significantly easier to travel globally compared to the more limited, though convenient, Wilmington International Airport (ILM).
4. Lifestyle: City of Oaks vs. The Port City
- Move to Raleigh if: You want a recession-resistant job market, access to elite higher education, and a central location that is only two hours from the beach and three hours from the mountains.
- Move to Wilmington if: You prioritize daily beach access, a historic riverfront culture, and a more relaxed, vacation-style pace of life.
Ready to Call Raleigh Home?
Navigating the Raleigh real estate market in 2025 requires a local expert who understands the nuances of the Triangle’s fast-moving sub-markets. Whether you are looking for a luxury estate in North Hills or a family-focused suburb in Cary, Dare Realty Group is here to guide you home.
Contact Trish Dare Today:
- Website: www.darerealtygroup.com
- Email: Trish@trishdare.com
- Phone: 919-564-6264
- Book a Strategy Call: Schedule Here