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New Hanover County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#66 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
39.6
County Score
Property Tax 75.8Income & Jobs 73.7Health 69.4

County Report Card

About New Hanover County, North Carolina

Below the National Median

New Hanover County earns a composite score of 39.6, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. While it offers coastal appeal, its overall livability ranking is weighed down by environmental and affordability factors.

Trailing the North Carolina Average

The county's overall score of 39.6 sits below the North Carolina state average of 44.7. It struggles to keep pace with the rest of the state due to specific challenges in housing costs and safety.

Strong Incomes and Low Taxes

Tax and income are bright spots, with scores of 75.8 and 73.7 respectively. Residents enjoy a low effective tax rate of 0.587% and a strong median household income of $72,892.

Housing Costs and Coastal Risks

The cost score of 10.7 reflects expensive housing, with median rents reaching $1,343. Additionally, a risk score of 3.9 indicates high vulnerability to environmental hazards that impact long-term stability.

A Coastal Hub for High Earners

This county best suits high-earning professionals or retirees who can afford premium housing and value low property taxes. It is ideal for those who prioritize health services and water quality over absolute affordability.

Score breakdown

Tax75.8Cost10.7Safety12.9Health69.4Schools37.1Income73.7Risk3.9Water69.3Weather53.6
🏛75.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠10.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓37.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡3.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤53.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨45.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱33.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Pender County
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44.9
Brunswick County
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Columbus County
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Onslow County
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Deep Dives

New Hanover County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in New Hanover County

via TaxByCounty

New Hanover taxes below the nation

New Hanover County's effective tax rate of 0.587% sits well below the national median of 0.957%, putting it in the lower third of U.S. counties. Residents here pay a median of $2,075 annually—about 23% less than the national median of $2,690 despite homes being worth more.

Lower than most North Carolina counties

New Hanover's 0.587% effective rate ranks among North Carolina's lowest, well below the state average of 0.701%. This favorable position means homeowners keep more of their property values, even as median home prices ($353,700) exceed most of the state.

Competitive with coastal neighbors

New Hanover compares favorably to nearby Pender County (0.696%) and Onslow County (0.652%), offering lower effective rates despite higher home values. Among the region's eight-county cluster, New Hanover ranks among the most tax-friendly.

About $2,075 on median home

On New Hanover's median home value of $353,700, the 0.587% rate translates to roughly $2,075 in annual property taxes. A homeowner with a mortgage typically pays around $2,093, while those without pay approximately $2,033.

Challenge your assessment today

Even in lower-tax counties, many homeowners are overassessed relative to market value. If your property has declined in value or you believe the assessment is inflated, filing an appeal could reduce your tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in New Hanover County

via CostByCounty

New Hanover rents bite harder than average

New Hanover County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.1% exceeds the national norm, meaning renters here dedicate a larger share of earnings to housing than typical Americans do. With a median household income of $72,892—just below the national median of $74,755—housing costs consume more of the paycheck here than they do nationwide.

Above average rents for North Carolina

New Hanover's 22.1% rent-to-income ratio places it above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, signaling tighter affordability than most peers statewide. The county's median rent of $1,343 per month far outpaces the state average of $938, reflecting coastal demand and limited supply.

Pricier than inland neighbors but not extreme

New Hanover's $1,343 median rent sits between nearby Onslow County ($1,198) and Orange County ($1,387), placing it squarely in the mid-to-upper tier of the region. Compared to more rural neighbors like Pamlico ($909) and Northampton ($749), New Hanover runs 48–79% higher, reflecting its status as the state's most populous coastal county.

Renting vs. buying in New Hanover

Renters spend $1,343 monthly while homeowners face $1,410 in monthly costs on a median home value of $353,700—nearly identical burdens despite vastly different asset outcomes. Combined, housing consumes about 22% of a median household's $72,892 annual income, leaving 78% for utilities, food, childcare, and savings.

Weighing a move to the coast?

New Hanover offers coastal lifestyle and strong median income, but expect to spend 4% more of your paycheck on rent than the national average. Job seekers and retirees should compare New Hanover's beach amenities against pricier peers like Orange County or seek better value in inland neighbors like Pender or Pamlico.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in New Hanover County

via IncomeByCounty

New Hanover earns slightly below the nation

New Hanover County's median household income of $72,892 falls just 2.5% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the upper-middle tier nationally. This means a typical New Hanover household earns roughly what you'd expect in mid-tier American counties, reflecting a stable economic foundation.

Ranks among North Carolina's top earners

New Hanover County significantly outperforms the state average, with its $72,892 median household income exceeding North Carolina's $61,072 by nearly 20%. This positions the county in the state's upper income bracket, driven largely by its role as a regional economic hub.

Leads the coastal county income race

New Hanover's $72,892 income outpaces nearby Onslow County ($64,568) and Pender County ($76,838), though Pender edges ahead by about $4,000. Among its eastern NC peers, only Orange County's research-driven economy yields higher median incomes in the region.

Housing remains affordable for most households

At a 22.1% rent-to-income ratio, New Hanover County sits just above the national affordability threshold, meaning most households comfortably cover housing costs. The median home value of $353,700 remains accessible relative to local incomes, supporting both renters and homeowners.

Build long-term wealth through strategic planning

With solid median incomes and manageable housing costs, New Hanover households have room to invest in retirement accounts, education, and property ownership. Consider consulting a financial advisor to maximize employer benefits and investment opportunities unique to the county's growing sectors.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in New Hanover County

via CrimeByCounty

New Hanover’s Safety Profile in National Perspective

New Hanover County maintains a safety score of 96.0, which reflects a secure environment despite local challenges. Its total crime rate of 2542.8 per 100K sits slightly above the national average of 2,385.5.

Comparing Coastal Safety to the State Average

The county's total crime rate exceeds the North Carolina average of 2050.0 per 100K. Its safety score of 96.0 falls just below the state average of 96.8, characterizing its status as a busy coastal hub.

New Hanover Leads Neighbors in Activity

Compared to neighboring Pender County's low rate of 1164.1, New Hanover sees more frequent law enforcement activity. However, its violent crime rate of 348.5 remains lower than the national average of 369.8.

Understanding Property vs. Violent Crime Trends

Property crime accounts for the majority of local incidents at 2194.3 per 100K. Violent crime remains relatively low at 348.5, meaning residents primarily deal with non-violent offenses like theft.

Securing Your Home in the Coastal Hub

Since property crime drives the local numbers, simple measures like outdoor lighting and alarm systems provide significant peace of mind. Staying informed about local trends helps residents keep their homes and belongings secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in New Hanover County

via HealthByCounty

New Hanover leads the state on longevity

At 77.6 years, New Hanover County's life expectancy outpaces the national average of 76.4 years and significantly exceeds North Carolina's state average of 74.4 years. Just 13.5% of residents report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 17.1%. These numbers suggest New Hanover residents are living longer, healthier lives than most of their peers nationwide.

Ranked among North Carolina's healthiest counties

New Hanover ranks in the top tier for life expectancy within North Carolina, beating the state average by 3.2 years. Its uninsured rate of 10.9% sits just below the state average of 12.5%, giving most residents access to healthcare coverage. This combination of strong health outcomes and broad coverage reflects consistent investment in health infrastructure.

Primary care far exceeds regional peers

New Hanover boasts 92 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly triple the regional average and among the highest in the state. Mental health capacity is equally strong at 592 providers per 100,000, offering residents robust access to both preventive and behavioral health services. Nearby counties like Pender (33 primary care providers per 100K) and Onslow (31 per 100K) lag significantly behind.

Strong provider network supports high access

With one of the state's highest concentrations of healthcare professionals, New Hanover residents can typically access both primary and mental health care without long delays or travel burdens. The 10.9% uninsured rate means roughly 89% of residents have coverage, reducing barriers to routine and emergency care. This infrastructure supports the county's standout health outcomes.

Nine out of ten New Hanover residents have coverage

If you're among the 10.9% of New Hanover residents without health insurance, coverage options exist—from employer plans to marketplace options on HealthCare.gov. Visit ncdhhs.gov or call 211 to learn about Medicaid eligibility, tax credits, and local enrollment assistance. Taking this step connects you to the strong healthcare network that makes New Hanover a health leader.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in New Hanover County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Coastal Education Hub with 50 Schools

New Hanover County maintains a robust educational infrastructure with 50 public schools serving 27,668 students across 9 districts. The system includes 32 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, and 10 high schools to support its growing population. This extensive network provides a solid foundation for families living in the Wilmington area.

Competitive Graduation Rates and Efficient Spending

The county achieves an 88.0% graduation rate, matching the state average and exceeding the national benchmark of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure sits at $6,880—slightly below the state average of $6,969—the school score of 52.2 remains competitive with state performance. These metrics suggest the county efficiently manages resources to deliver academic results on par with state standards.

Diverse District Options and Charter Choice

New Hanover County Schools is the primary provider, educating 25,244 students across 42 schools. Families also have access to 7 charter schools, representing 14% of the total school landscape. Specialized options like the Cape Fear Center for Inquiry offer smaller environments with 409 enrolled students.

Urban and Suburban Learning Environments

Most students attend school in city or suburban settings, with only four schools located in rural areas. While the average school size is 553 students, high schools like John T Hoggard serve over 2,200 students, creating a large-campus atmosphere. Conversely, the Wilmington Preparatory Academy offers a more intimate setting with just 97 students.

Discover Homes Near Top-Rated Wilmington Schools

With a high graduation rate and diverse school types, New Hanover County is a top choice for education-focused homebuyers. Explore the variety of residential neighborhoods surrounding the county’s 50 public schools. School quality remains a vital factor in local property values and long-term community growth.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in New Hanover County

via RiskByCounty

New Hanover's disaster risk ranks high nationally

With a composite risk score of 96.12, New Hanover County faces significantly elevated natural disaster risk compared to the nation's average. This 'Relatively High' rating reflects exposure to multiple hazard types that threaten homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the county.

Top-tier risk in North Carolina

New Hanover's score of 96.12 towers above North Carolina's state average of 66.72, placing it among the highest-risk counties in the state. Coastal location and low elevation expose the county to hazards that most inland North Carolina communities rarely face.

Riskier than nearby Pender and Onslow

New Hanover (96.12) carries slightly more total risk than neighboring Onslow County (94.97) and Pender County (86.93), though all three coastal counties share similar hurricane and flood vulnerabilities. These three form a high-risk coastal corridor where storm surge and flooding pose persistent threats.

Hurricanes and tornadoes pose greatest threats

New Hanover's hurricane risk score of 99.12 is among the highest possible, with tropical storms regularly bringing dangerous winds and storm surge to the coast. Tornado risk of 90.36 and flood risk of 89.89 add additional layers of hazard that can strike with little warning.

Comprehensive coverage is essential

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes flood and wind damage; New Hanover residents should secure standalone flood insurance and verify hurricane deductibles (often 5–10% of home value) with their insurer. Consider reinforcing doors, windows, and roof attachments to withstand high winds while keeping emergency supplies accessible.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in New Hanover County

via WeatherByCounty

A Hot Coastal Exception to National Norms

New Hanover's annual average of 63.6°F is roughly 10 degrees higher than the national median. This maritime climate is defined by high humidity and significant annual rainfall.

One of North Carolina’s Warmest Counties

New Hanover sits far above the state average of 59.3°F, ranking it among the warmest locations in North Carolina. Its coastal position keeps winters much milder than the inland state average.

Warmer and Wetter Than Onslow Neighbors

The county is nearly two degrees warmer than neighboring Onslow County on average. It also receives 62.9 inches of rain, significantly outpacing the state average of 51.5 inches.

Tropical Summers and Virtually No Snow

July averages a sweltering 81.1°F, and the county sees 52 days of extreme heat annually. Snow is almost non-existent, with a yearly average of just 0.6 inches.

Manage High Humidity and Frequent Rain

Residents must plan for 62.9 inches of annual rain with reliable drainage and moisture control. Air conditioning is a necessity for the 52 days of 90-degree heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in New Hanover County

via SoilByCounty

New Hanover's Balanced Coastal pH

New Hanover's soils average a pH of 6.05, placing them much closer to the national median of 6.5 than the state average of 5.14. While taxonomic data is currently limited for this coastal area, the acidity levels are relatively mild for the region. This makes the soil versatile for a variety of landscaping and agricultural uses.

High Sand Content Drives Drainage

The soil is comprised of 72.9% sand, with 18.5% silt and only 8.7% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability and aeration for root systems. However, such a sandy mix typically loses nutrients faster than heavier clay soils.

Strong Organic Matter, Low Water Retention

Organic matter reaches 4.51%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0%. Despite this richness, the available water capacity is quite low at 0.067 in/in, significantly trailing the state average of 0.134 in/in. Gardeners must prioritize consistent irrigation to keep plants hydrated.

Fast-Moving Coastal Hydrology

Standard drainage classes are not currently recorded, but the 72.9% sand profile suggests rapid drainage. This composition is ideal for avoiding root rot but requires careful management of runoff. Homebuilders should find the soil stable, provided they account for the rapid water movement.

Lush Gardening in Zone 8b

With a hardiness zone of 8b, New Hanover is perfect for growing heat-tolerant species like oleander, palmettos, and camellias. The soil score of 45.7 sits well above the state average of 29.4, indicating high relative potential. Grab your shovel and take advantage of this coastal growing environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in New Hanover County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Conditions Create Lawn Challenges

New Hanover County earns a lawn difficulty score of 33.8, making it significantly harder to maintain than the national median of 50.0. Located in Hardiness Zone 8b, local homeowners face a environment that is more demanding than the North Carolina state average of 40.8.

High Humidity and Extreme Heat

The county receives 62.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the ideal 30-50 inch range and often fuels fungal growth. With 52 extreme heat days and 5598 growing degree days, lawns require aggressive mowing and careful moisture management during the long summer.

Ideal pH Meets Sandy Ground

The soil pH of 6.05 hits the sweet spot for nutrient absorption, falling right within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. Because the soil is 72.9% sand, it drains rapidly, requiring residents to monitor moisture closely despite the high annual rainfall.

Severe Drought Despite High Rainfall

New Hanover has endured 26 weeks in drought over the past year, with 100.0% of the county currently facing Severe (D2+) conditions. To protect turf, use smart irrigation controllers and maintain a higher mowing height to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Seize the Coastal Growing Season

Warm-season grasses like St. Augustine or Bermuda are best suited for this 8b climate and long growing window. Aim to establish new sod or seed after the last spring frost on March 20, ensuring deep roots take hold before the November 15 fall frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is New Hanover County's county score?
New Hanover County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 39.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does New Hanover County rank among counties in North Carolina?
New Hanover County ranks #66 among all counties in North Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in New Hanover County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in New Hanover County is $2,075, with an effective tax rate of 0.59%. This earns New Hanover County a tax score of 75.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in New Hanover County?
The median household income in New Hanover County, North Carolina is $72,892 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. New Hanover County earns an income score of 73.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is New Hanover County, North Carolina a good place to live?
New Hanover County scores 39.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate New Hanover County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare New Hanover County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.