Wilson is a small town expanding with big industry
Industry, art and athletics combine in Wilson, a growing town of nearly 50,000. “I like the fact that we are a small town that’s convenient to a lot of other communities,” says Debbie Reason, a lifelong resident of Wilson and Realtor at Our Town Properties. “But we don’t have to live in the hustle and bustle and all the traffic.” Wilson is about 50 miles east of Raleigh, but residents may not have to commute that far because Wilson is the largest manufacturing base in Eastern NC. “You can have a great job and still a fairly low cost of living as opposed to living in one of the larger metro areas,” says Allyson Moye, a Realtor with Womble Real Estate Company who has been selling in the area for nearly 20 years.
Wilson is North Carolina’s first gigabit city, meaning they can access high-speed fiber optic gigabit internet with free wi-fi downtown. “There’s reliable service and excellent tech support should you need it,” Moye says. “If you’re having issues, you call, and it’s ‘Greenlight, this is Nick.’ Nick is sitting downtown; you may run into Nick after work at a bar somewhere.” Wilson’s downtown area is also expanding with new shops, eateries, and a baseball stadium.
Wilson residents enjoy a vast array of sweet treats at The Sugar Plum Shoppe.
Local artists share their works at Wilson's Barnes Corner Gallery.
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Historic homes and smaller tract builds
"Wilson has a large inventory of bungalows and then some really beautiful old historic Victorian and Queen Anne Craftsman-style homes as well,” Moye says. Homes in Wilson stay on the market for an average of 44 days. The median single-family price is $275,000. “If you spend $500,000 for a house in Raleigh, you might get 1,300 or 1,400 square feet. If you buy in Wilson for $500,000, you’ll get 3,000 square feet and more land.”
With the growing population, there has been more new construction. “There’s a demand for smaller tract houses,” Moye says. “There’s a couple of new developments that have some townhouses in the front and some larger houses in the back.” Townhouses range from $145,000 to around $325,000.
Wilson is seeing an influx of new home construction.
Ranch homes are a common sight in Wilson.
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Shining sculptures at Whirligig Park
Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park is the luminary of downtown. Simpson’s creative metal “whirligig” sculptures hover over the park and even light up at night. “Everything that’s happening downtown is centralized around Whirligig Park,” Reason says. It’s home to the annual Whirligig Festival, which just celebrated its 20th anniversary and the Gig in the Park spring and fall concert series. There are also galleries and museums to explore downtown. “Wilson Arts Council and the Boykin Cultural Center downtown have concerts and theater productions going on all the time,” Moye says.
Gillette Park has eight soccer fields, an accessible playground and the J. Burt Gillette Athletic Complex. “We host a lot of little league and soccer regional and state tournaments,” Moye says. "If there’s a tournament going on, you know it because of the traffic going in and out.” Residents can kayak, fish or jog along the walking trails at Lake Wilson Park. “They spent a lot of money on that in the last couple of years, adding a bridge across the lake, restroom facilities and picnic areas.” For indoor fitness, a YMCA recently opened downtown.
When the Zebulon Mudcat minor league baseball team was looking for a new home, Wilson volunteered. The Wilson Warbird will begin their season in April 2026 when Wilson Stadium opens.
Creative metal “whirligig” sculptures hover over the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park and even light up at night.
J. Burt Gillette Athletic Complex features playgrounds, athletic fields, walking trails and more.
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Wilson County Schools and Barton College
There are 14 elementary schools, seven middle schools and five high schools in the Wilson County Schools district. "Instead of going to a traditional high school, you can go to the Early College Academy, and when you graduate, you’ll have your high school diploma and a two-year associate degree,” Moye says. There are also some charter and private school options. Barton College is a private four-year college in the area, while Wilson Community College offers associate degrees.
Barton College is a private four-year college in the Wilson area.
Wilson Community College offers associate degrees to area residents.
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The Downtown Social District and shopping centers
“The downtown area is coming back into its own with lots of locally owned shops and boutiques,” Moye says. There are new breweries and restaurants popping up, including those specializing in Wilson Cuisine, which specializes in Eastern North Carolina-style pork barbeque. Those who are 21-plus can enjoy the Downtown Social District. “As long as you’ve got it in a properly marked cup with the social district sticker on it, you can just walk down the street and look at the sights,” Moye says. A little further out, there are a few shopping centers with well-known retailers and chain restaurants.
Wilson residents can enjoy lunch or dinner at Bill's Grill.
Those who are 21-plus can enjoy Wilson's Downtown Social District.
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Centrally located from the Research Triangle
Wilson is just off of Interstate 95. “We're just off of a major highway that goes all the way up to New York and all the way down to Miami,” Reason says. RIDE is an app-based community ride-share program that picks up residents for a small fee. The town also has an Amtrack station, and the drive to Rocky Mount-Wilson Airport will take about 12 miles or 20 minutes. Wilson Medical Center is 2 miles from downtown.
Crime rates above the national average
Wilson’s violent crime rate varied in 2023 but was typically just above the national and state averages. Its property crime rate was consistently well above the national and state averages. Wilson experiences all four seasons and has no major environmental concerns.
Written By
Joyelle Ronan
Photography Contributed By
Kris Bates
Video By
Brad Davis
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Wilson, NC sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Wilson, NC over the last 12 months is $257,690, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in well-established neighborhood, this 4BR/4BA home is waiting for you to make it yours! The formal dining room is spacious and can accommodate seating for those large family & friends gatherings; formal living room; drop-dead gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, SS appliances including gas cooktop, island with seating, subway tile backsplash & tons of cabinet space and an informal
Welcome to 1716 Ridgeway St W in Wilson! This charming home offers over 1,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, featuring a functional layout, comfortable living areas, and a bright interior that feels warm and inviting. The fully remodeled kitchen is a standout, complete with all stainless steel appliances, making it both stylish and move-in ready. Step outside to enjoy the
This well maintained home is ready for a big active family. From the antique brick exterior to the roomy interior it is ''family friendly''. The 4 BRs are all spacious. Updated baths, formal areas, a sunny kitchen & huge den are stars of the interior. The huge, open back yard will accommodate any type of ballgame. Another star feature is the 16 x24 wired workshop that has heat & air, several
Come see this immaculate home with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms which includes 2 primary suites perfect for guests, on almost a half acre. The kitchen has been fully updated. It features a 2 car garage with side entry. Features a large back yard and patio with lots of possibilities and a storage building. Home has 400 amp electrical service and greenlight high speed internet available. Close to
Lots of space at an incredible price! This spacious brick ranch with a garage sits on a desirable corner lot in the highly sought-after New Hope Elementary School District. The home offers three bedrooms and two full baths, along with both a living room and a den—each featuring its own fireplace. A bright sunroom provides the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or unwind with a good book.
Great neighborhood & Location - Close to shops, restaurants, schools & hospital. No HOA. Zoned Single Family, Property is 69.15' wide street front & about 378.23'' deep on one side. For Full Disclosure please see Restrictive Covenants Bk1506 Pg284-291. 50' Riparian Barrier from the bank of the Bloomery Swap. Per Wilson City 100 Year Floodzone 0.2 PCT ANNUAL CHANCE FLOOD HAZARD
Great neighborhood & Location - Close to shops, restaurants, schools & hospital. No HOA. Zoned Single Family, Property is 85' wide street front & about 377.52' deep on one side. For Full Disclosure please see Restrictive Covenants Bk1506 Pg284-291. 50' Riparian Barrier from the bank of the Bloomery Swap. Per Wilson City GIS 500 Year Floodzone, 0.2 PCT ANNUAL CHANCE FLOOD HAZARD
Great neighborhood & Location - Close to shops, restaurants, schools & hospital. No HOA. Zoned Single Family, Property is 85' wide street front & about 365.31' deep on one side. For Full Disclosure please see Restrictive Covenants Bk1506 Pg284-291. 50' Riparian Barrier from the bank of the Bloomery Swap. Per Wilson City GIS 500 Year Floodzone, 0.2 PCT ANNUAL CHANCE FLOOD HAZARD
Remodeled and move in ready! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, NW Wilson home combines modern updates with future potential. Featuring a NEW HVAC system, NEW ductwork, and a NEWER roof. This home also includes ALL NEW-appliances, bathrooms, LVP flooring, and plumbing, so the big-ticket items are already done! Inside you'll love the refreshed finishes, spacious layout, and functional kitchen. Step
Looking for an investment property in Wilson? This property offers a great location just minutes from downtown. Enjoy easy access to local attractions such as Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, the Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House Museum and the city's new baseball field. With its convenient location near shopping, dining and entertainment, this property offers strong potential for investors.
Prime commercial land opportunity located in a highly desirable, high-traffic corridor in Wilson. This property offers excellent visibility and accessibility along one of the area's busiest roads, making it ideal for a variety of commercial uses. Conveniently located near retail centers, restaurants, medical offices, and established neighborhoods, providing strong exposure and customer access. A
Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Discover elevated living at The Carolinian Apartments, where luxury meets comfort in brand-new one, two, and three-bedroom homes featuring stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring, private patios or balconies, and in-unit laundry. Enjoy top-tier amenities like a resort-style pool, 24-hour fitness center with recovery room,
Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Discover elevated living at The Carolinian Apartments, where luxury meets comfort in brand-new one, two, and three-bedroom homes featuring stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring, private patios or balconies, and in-unit laundry. Enjoy top-tier amenities like a resort-style pool, 24-hour fitness center with recovery room,
Prices, promotions, and availability are subject to change. Discover elevated living at The Carolinian Apartments, where luxury meets comfort in brand-new one, two, and three-bedroom homes featuring stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring, private patios or balconies, and in-unit laundry. Enjoy top-tier amenities like a resort-style pool, 24-hour fitness center with recovery room,
Here at Oasis at Heritage Apartments, you'll experience luxury living with all the best in location and comfort. Just minutes from our community you will find great shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including Heritage Place Shopping Center, Harris Teater, Target, Marshalls, Panera, Starbucks, and Westwood Village Shopping Center. We are situated near several area schools and employers,
3-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring beautiful hardwood floors throughout. Comfortable layout with plenty of natural light. Partially fenced backyard offers added privacy and outdoor space. No smoking and no pets. Applications are at our office: 3301 Nash St Ste E Wilson, NC 27896. Application fee: $50 per person over 18 years old. Rent: $1,400, Deposit: Minimum $1,400.00. Requirements: Income of 3x
Centro at Pine Nash Apartments proves that big style doesn’t require a big city. Thoughtful design, modern comfort, and a downtown address await the moment you say yes to our apartments in Wilson, NC.It all starts with you exploring our curated selection of studio, one, and two-bedroom layouts, paired with loft options and all the upscale features you want, like pendant lighting and high-end
This charming brick ranch in Wilson offers a unique blend of character and modern updates, making it an ideal choice for your next home. Featuring two distinct living areas, two cozy fireplaces, and built-in bookshelves, the interior is designed for both relaxation and functionality. The home also includes two enclosed porches, perfect for enjoying the outdoors in comfort year-round.
Our apartments are situated in a historic warehouse once integral to North Carolina's tobacco industry—in beautiful downtown Wilson. All of our lofts feature historic charm and great amenities like all-inclusive utilities, all stainless steel appliances, washer & dryer in-unit, and high ceilings with exposed wood beams & brick walls. Contact us today for more information & to apply!
New construction, single story ranch style home with an open floor plan. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. NO smoking and NO pets. Applications are at our office: 3301 Nash St Ste E Wilson, NC 27896. Application fee: $50 per person over 18 years old. Rent: $2,100, Deposit: Minimum $2,100.00. Requirements: Income of 3x the rent, minimum credit score requirement of 630 and no previous evictions or balances
Beacon Pointe Apartments is in Wilson, North Carolina convenient to shopping, dining, downtown, and entertainment. We offer affordable and spacious one, two, three and four bedroom apartment homes featuring modern appliances, ceiling fans, wall to wall carpet, central heat and air with water and sewer included. For your enjoyment and convenience, there's a playground, an onsite laundry room, and
Charming and updated 2 bedroom, 1 bath duplex featuring white cabinets, durable LVP flooring, and ceiling fans. Open and airy layout with plenty of natural sunlight throughout. Range and refrigerator will be installed. Conveniently located near shopping and dining. No pets allowed. No washer/dryer hookup. Each tenant 18 and over must complete an application. Security deposit is $850. To schedule
Discover the essence of sophisticated living at The Carolinian Apartments! Our brand-new community elevates apartment living with its collection of luxurious one, two, and three bedroom homes, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Step into elegantly designed interiors featuring side-by-side stainless steel refrigerators, tile backsplash, and wood-style flooring. You can enjoy in-unit
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