Section Image

Masonboro

Masonboro

Neighborhood in Wilmington, North Carolina

New Hanover County 28409

$795,277 Average Value
$274 Average Price per Sq Ft
21 Homes For Sale

Coastal neighborhood with a history of homebuilding

The community of Masonboro gets its name from the masons who built homes there in the late 18th century. Although the trade may be rare today, the business of building homes is alive and well in this Wilmington neighborhood. Featuring historic custom estates with views of the Intracoastal Waterway and new homes under construction, Masonboro continues to attract people looking for a coastal lifestyle. “I find it to be a little quieter. There’s a quaintness about it,” says Tricia Bursell, a Realtor with Blue Coast Realty Corporation. “One whole side has boat access and slips that come with the homes. It’s unique in that way,” says Bursell, who moved to Wilmington in 2019. Residents don’t have to sacrifice convenience for waterside serenity. The neighborhood has its own shopping centers and is a quick drive to some of the area’s biggest attractions.

The Intracoastal Waterway is the center of the  Masonboro neighborhood.
The Intracoastal Waterway is the center of the Masonboro neighborhood.
The Courtyard at Masonboro is a small shopping center where locals shop.
The Courtyard at Masonboro is a small shopping center where locals shop.
1/2

Sail along the Intracoastal Waterway

Life in Masonboro revolves around the water. Mariners can drop in at Trails End Park to cruise up and down the Intracoastal Waterway. Or they can visit Masonboro Island Reserve, an untouched barrier island between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic Ocean, only reachable by boat. Sound-side trails lead visitors to the sandy beach facing the ocean, where they can walk for miles or set up a minimal campsite. “What’s hard about this area is being able to have that dockage, so Masonboro Yacht Club is very popular, but it’s on a waiting list,” says longtime Wilmington resident Dan Barentine, a broker with Nest Realty. Wrightsville and Carolina Beaches are a short drive from the neighborhood. Bursell says each beach has its own vibe. “Carolina Beach is more populated and commercialized. They have the boardwalk. But if you want a quiet scene with a little more mellow, subdued feel, then Wrightsville is the place to go,” she says. Residents can head inland to Long Leaf Park for a playground, athletic facilities, and nature trails.

Trails End Park in Wilmington, NC has public boat access.
Trails End Park in Wilmington, NC has public boat access.
Masonboro Marina is where locals keep their boats in Masonboro.
Masonboro Marina is where locals keep their boats in Masonboro.
1/2

From brick ranch-style homes to large estates with water views

The winding two-lane streets here are lined with mature oak trees covered in Spanish moss that dangles like the branches of a weeping willow. Buyers will find a mix of traditional subdivisions, gated communities and free-standing homes. “Home styles in Masonboro vary more,” Bursell says. “People can afford to have builders construct unique homes and not have to have a Riverlights kind of feel where houses are consecutively right next to each other and built by the same builders.” Midcentury ranch-style homes rest on spacious grassy lots and typically range from the mid $300,000s to the low $500,000s. Larger New Traditional homes from the 1990s and early 2000s sit closer together and cost between $400,000 and $700,000. The new East & Mason subdivision offers recently built Craftsman-style townhouses and detached homes starting in the $500,000s, reaching the upper $800,000s. Multimillion-dollar estates line the waterfront and feature large manicured lawns, secondary suites and private boat slips. Some of these homes date to the late 1800s, the oak trees on the property may be even older. Potential buyers should note that some properties have a flood risk due to the coastal nature of the neighborhood and that hurricanes can hit Wilmington.

Midcentury ranch-style homes rest on spacious grassy lots in Masonboro.
Midcentury ranch-style homes rest on spacious grassy lots in Masonboro.
Masonboro is a short drive fom Wrightsville Beach.
Masonboro is a short drive fom Wrightsville Beach.
1/2

A local grocer, salons and restaurants at Courtyard at Masonboro

The neighborhood shopping center, Courtyard at Masonboro, is where residents can get their nails and hair done, get their dog groomed and work out. It includes the Veggie Wagon, a local grocer stocked with area produce, take-home meals and a wide section of wine and craft beer. There’s also Port City Java, a longtime regional drive-through coffee chain serving lattes and breakfast wraps. For dinner, Bar Masonboro is a casual spot for burgers and fried seafood baskets, while Whiskey Trail at the Creek is a tavern-style bar and restaurant focused on American fare. Fast food, pizzerias and international eateries are about 4 miles away at the Pine Valley Shopping Center, anchored by a Publix. Boaters often stop by the Masonboro Country Store before a day on the water. “They have a nice gas station where you can fill up your boat. It’s ethanol-free, and they have bait there,” Bursell says. For clothing, home goods and the like, Independence Mall is about 5 miles away.

The Veggie Wagon is Msonboro's local grocery store
The Veggie Wagon is Msonboro's local grocery store
Bar Mason is a popular spot in the Masonboro neighborhood.
Bar Mason is a popular spot in the Masonboro neighborhood.
1/2

A-rated schools in New Hanover County

Masonboro Elementary receives an A from Niche and is ranked the No. 4 best public elementary school in Wilmington. The school features an outdoor classroom and is supported by a very active PTA, which holds fundraisers and appreciation events throughout the year. Roland-Grise Middle gets an A-minus, while John T. Hoggard High earns an A. Hoggard offers an International Baccalaureate Program for 11th and 12th grade students. Cape Fear Academy, Myrtle Grove Christian School and Coastal Christian High School are nearby private options.

Kids enjoy going to school at Masonboro Elementary School.
Kids enjoy going to school at Masonboro Elementary School.
Roland-Grise Middle School is a school located in New Hanover County in Wilmington, NC.
Roland-Grise Middle School is a school located in New Hanover County in Wilmington, NC.
1/2

Short drives to downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach

Most residents get around the Wilmington area by car. Masonboro is a short distance from South College Road. The main thoroughfare connects to Interstate 40 near the Wilmington International Airport, about 10 miles away. Downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach are about 8 miles away. Carolina Beach is about 10 miles away. Speed limits are low enough around the neighborhood for cyclists to safely reach Masonboro Loop Road, a bike-friendly street that leads to the many bikeable routes around the area. The nearest Wave Transit bus stops are roughly 2 miles from the neighborhood along South College Road.

People watch the sunset in downtown Wilmington not far from Masonboro.
People watch the sunset in downtown Wilmington not far from Masonboro.
Wrightsville beach is a short 8 minute drive from Masonboro.
Wrightsville beach is a short 8 minute drive from Masonboro.
1/2
DeeVa Payne
Written By
DeeVa Payne
Bryan Regan
Photography Contributed By
Bryan Regan
Adam Lapallo
Video By
Adam Lapallo

Agents Specializing in this Area

See All Agents

Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Butch Saunders, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Wilmington International

28 min drive

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Masonboro US
Homicide 1 4
Sexual Assault 1 4
Assault with Weapon 1 4
Robbery 1 4
Burglary 2 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 1 4
Larceny 2 4
Crime Score 1 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$703,102
Median Single Family Price
$730,697
Median Townhouse Price
$572,120
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$274
Number of Homes for Sale
21
Last 12 months Home Sales
92
Months of Supply
2.70
Median List Price
$690,295
Median Discount From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
6%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,083
Median Year Built
1994
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,632
Significantly above the national average
1,937
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
2,640
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
2,100
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
16,988

Open Houses

  • Sunday, May 4
    12 - 2pm

    7240 Orchard Trace, Wilmington, NC 28409

    $570,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,359 Sq Ft
    • 7240 Orchard Trace
    • New 6 days ago

    Welcome to 7240 Orchard Trace -- a prime corner-lot gem in Magnolia Plantation near Midtown Wilmington!Situated on a half-acre, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a perfect blend of style, space, and location. Step under the striking copper porch roof and into a grand open foyer, where you're greeted by thoughtful architectural details -- including graceful interior

    Christian Cardamone Keller Williams Innovate-Wilmington

    Section Image
  • Sunday, May 4
    1:30 - 4pm

    3525 Masonboro Loop Rd, Wilmington, NC 28409

    $924,900

    • 5 Beds
    • 3.5 Baths
    • 3,473 Sq Ft
    • 3525 Masonboro Loop Rd

    Welcome to Windward Oaks!Located in one of Wilmington's most desirable neighborhoods, this stately 3,473 sq. ft. brick home sits on a beautifully landscaped half-acre lot adorned with mature live oaks, azaleas, and lush greenery. Directly across the street from the highly sought-after Masonboro Elementary School, (formerly Parsley Elementary) you'll love the convenience--no more waiting in

    Paul Snider Premier Realty Group

    Section Image
  • Sunday, May 4
    12 - 5pm

    4045 Watersail Dr Unit 133, Wilmington, NC 28409

    $689,750

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,584 Sq Ft
    • 4045 Watersail Dr
    • Unit 133

    UNDER CONSTRUCTION - Step into the dazzling Wisteria Stick by Robuck Homes at Mason Walk, where cozy living meets minimal yard work drama! This treasure features a show-stopping kitchen with soft-close TruWhite cabinets along the perimeter and a bold Midnight Navy island, topped with Pure White quartz that shines like a star! Add in a chic Natural Stone Polished Stratus White tile backsplash and

    Kathleen Postel Fonville Morisey & Barefoot

    Section Image

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Butch Saunders, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
2,618
Median Age
44
Population Density
2 ppl/acre
Population under 18
24.1%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
20%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$134,907
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$165,043

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
99.4%
College Graduates
69.8%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
26.6%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
71.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
64''
Average Winter Low Temperature
34°F
Average Summer High Temperature
89°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®

23 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

2 / 100

Minimal Transit

Transit Score®

0 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Reviews

Are you familiar with the Masonboro neighborhood? to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Masonboro