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Why Live in Southport

Southport, North Carolina, is a small town of 4,400 residents situated at the mouth of the Cape Fear River along the Intracoastal Waterway, providing convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its picturesque river views, mild winters, and oak-shaded streets, Southport has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including “A Walk to Remember” and “Dawson’s Creek.” The town features two regular ferries that connect to Pleasure Island and Bald Head Island, home to the historic Old Baldy lighthouse. Southport Waterfront Park, a 9-acre space near the Southport Fishing Pier and Riverwalk, offers scenic spots for relaxation. The town's landscape is characterized by ancient live oaks, some between 600 and 800 years old, and a mix of historic homes, including early 1900s cottages, Victorian Revivals, and midcentury brick houses. Newer properties such as Cape Cods and contemporary cottages are also available. Southport Elementary is highly rated, and South Brunswick High School offers dual enrollment with Brunswick Community College. The town's historic downtown features the Southport Market and waterfront seafood restaurants like Fishy Fishy Cafe and Provision Company. Southport is car-dependent, with North Carolina Highway 211 and Highway 87 providing routes to Wilmington and Wilmington International Airport, less than 35 miles away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Southport, NC?
The median rent for a home in Southport, NC is $2,200 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of June 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Southport, NC?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Southport, NC, a household needs to earn roughly $88,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $2,200 per month in Southport, NC, renters typically need to show $6,600 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Southport, NC?
In Southport, NC, the price-to-rent ratio is 17.9, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Median Rent
$2,200
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,475
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,995
Median Condo Rent
$1,975
How to Rent a Home