Leland has gone from a quiet crossroads on the west bank of the Cape Fear River to the largest town in Brunswick County in a little over a decade. For buyers who want newer homes, golf and amenity communities, and an easy drive to downtown Wilmington and the Brunswick County beaches, it’s often the first place on the list. Here’s a local look at what living in Leland is really like, what’s changing, and what to think about before you buy.
Leland at a Glance
The growth is real. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s QuickFacts, Leland’s estimated population reached 35,731 as of July 1, 2025, up 52.9% from the 2020 estimates base. The 2010 Census counted just 13,527 people. The Town of Leland’s community profile notes that Leland is the largest municipality in Brunswick County, which the Census has recognized as the fastest-growing county in North Carolina.
The same Census data paints a picture of who lives here: a high owner-occupancy rate (about 80.6% in the 2020–2024 survey period), a sizable retiree population (28.4% of residents are 65 or older), and plenty of working households commuting into Wilmington, with an average commute of about 25 minutes.
Where Leland Sits and How You Get Around
Leland’s biggest selling point is location. It sits just across the Cape Fear River from downtown Wilmington, so many residents can reach the Riverwalk, the hospital, or UNCW-area jobs in roughly the time it takes to cross town in some bigger metros. U.S. 17, U.S. 74/76, and I-140 all run through or around Leland, which makes it simple to head south toward Southport, Oak Island, and Holden Beach, or north toward Hampstead and Jacksonville without going through Wilmington.
The flip side is that river crossings matter. Long-term planning around the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement and day-to-day traffic on U.S. 17 are worth factoring in if you’ll commute daily. The town’s recent road resurfacing project is a reminder that infrastructure is still catching up with growth.
Neighborhoods and Housing Styles
Much of Leland’s housing was built in the last 20 years, so buyers will find a lot of newer construction, open floor plans, and community amenities. A few well-known areas:
Brunswick Forest
Leland’s largest development, with roughly 3,500 homes and about 6,000 residents according to the community’s own reporting. It includes multiple neighborhoods with different home styles, a championship golf course, trails, pools, fitness centers, and a town center with shopping, dining, and medical offices.
Magnolia Greens
One of Leland’s earlier golf communities, known for mature landscaping and a mix of single-family homes. Its developers are often credited with proving that a master-planned community could work in Leland.
Westport, Waterford, and the U.S. 17 Corridor
These areas offer a range of established neighborhoods and newer sections, with quick access to grocery stores, restaurants, and services along U.S. 17 and Village Road.
New Construction Communities
Builders remain active across Leland and nearby Winnabow and Belville. If you’re weighing a brand-new home, our guide to buying new construction in Leland covers builder contracts, inspections, and incentives.
Schools
Leland is served by Brunswick County Schools. Schools in the area include North Brunswick High School and Leland Middle School in Leland, with elementary assignments that vary by address (Town Creek Elementary in nearby Winnabow serves part of the area). Attendance zones can change as new schools open, so always confirm a specific address with the district before you buy. Brunswick Community College’s Leland Center offers workforce training and small-business support close to home.
Parks, Recreation, and Everyday Life
Leland has invested steadily in parks and greenways. Founders Park hosts community events, Westgate Nature Park offers a wooded escape, and the town’s parks plan includes the future Loblolly Park. Add in golf, the river, and a 30- to 45-minute drive to most Brunswick County beaches, and it’s easy to see why so many relocating buyers end up here.
What Buyers Should Weigh Before Buying in Leland
- HOA rules and fees. Many Leland neighborhoods have HOAs, and some have multiple layers (a master association plus a sub-association). Read the covenants and budget during your due diligence period.
- Property taxes. Town and county taxes both apply inside town limits. Our post on Leland property taxes and the 2027 revaluation explains what may change.
- Zoning and growth. Leland is rewriting its development rules. See what the new development rulebook means for homeowners and nearby vacant land.
- Flood risk. Much of Leland is inland, but areas near creeks, marsh, and the river can carry flood zone designations. Check the specific parcel. Our flood zone guide walks through it.
- Utilities. Water and sewer providers vary by location, and Brunswick County’s new water treatment plant is part of the bigger picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leland part of Wilmington?
No. Leland is its own town in Brunswick County, across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington, which is in New Hanover County. Many residents work or shop in Wilmington, but taxes, schools, and local government are separate.
Is Leland a good fit for retirees?
Many retirees choose Leland for its amenity communities, golf, and access to Wilmington’s medical care. Census data shows about 28% of residents are 65 or older, though the town also has many working families.
How far is Leland from the beach?
It depends on the beach and traffic, but most Brunswick County beaches and Wrightsville Beach are a reasonable day-trip drive. Oak Island and Holden Beach are reached by heading south on U.S. 17 and N.C. 211 or N.C. 130.
Do most Leland homes have HOAs?
Many do, especially in planned communities, but not all. Older parts of Leland and some rural edges have homes without an HOA.
Thinking About a Move to Leland?
Leland offers a rare mix of newer homes, community amenities, and a short hop to both downtown Wilmington and the beaches. The right neighborhood depends on your commute, budget, and how much HOA structure you want. If you’d like help comparing communities or touring homes, reach out to Aspyre Collective and we’ll help you find the right fit.
