Cities and Towns in New Hanover County, North Carolina

Founded in 1729, New Hanover County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, New Hanover County was formed from Craven County. The city of Wilmington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 129, New Hanover County has a population of 229,018 and area of 328 square miles (850 km²).

List of all cities in New Hanover County, NC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bedford Fair Industries, NC	28410	910
Cape Fear, NC	28401	910
Carolina Beach, NC	28428	910
Castle Hayne, NC	28429	910
Fort Fisher Air Force Statio, NC	28449	910
Kure Beach, NC	28449	910
New Hanover County Airport, NC	28405	910
University of NC, NC	28403	910
Willow Ridge, NC	28410	910
Wilmington, NC	28401	910
	28402	910
	28403	910
	28404	910
	28405	910
	28406	910
	28407	910
	28408	910
	28409	910
	28410	910
	28411	910
	28412	910
Wrightsville Beach, NC	28480	910
Writsvlle Bch, NC	28480	910

Major Cities and Towns in New Hanover County, North Carolina

Wilmington

Overview

• Area: Approximately 52.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 115,000 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 28401, 28403, 28405, 28409, 28411, 28412
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.2257° N, 77.9447° W

Location and History

Wilmington, the county seat of New Hanover County, is situated along the Cape Fear River in southeastern North Carolina. Established in 1739, it was named in honor of Spencer Compton, the Earl of Wilmington. The city’s strategic port location made it a vital center for trade and commerce, particularly in naval stores and cotton during the 18th and 19th centuries. During the Civil War, Wilmington served as a crucial Confederate port until its capture in 1865. In the 20th century, the city diversified its economy, embracing industries such as shipbuilding during World War II and later developing a robust tourism sector. Today, Wilmington is known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to beautiful beaches.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wilmington is home to several notable educational institutions, including the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The city’s historic district features over 230 blocks of antebellum architecture, with landmarks such as the Bellamy Mansion Museum and Thalian Hall. The Battleship North Carolina, a World War II-era battleship, is moored across the river and serves as a museum. The Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River offers scenic views and hosts numerous festivals and events. Additionally, the nearby Airlie Gardens showcases lush landscapes and seasonal displays, attracting both locals and tourists.

Carolina Beach

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,000 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28428
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.0351° N, 77.8930° W

Location and History

Carolina Beach is a coastal town located on Pleasure Island, south of Wilmington. Incorporated in 1925, it developed as a popular seaside resort, attracting visitors with its sandy shores and boardwalk attractions. The town’s history is intertwined with its tourism industry, which has been the backbone of its economy for decades. Over the years, Carolina Beach has maintained its charm, offering a blend of vintage amusement rides and modern amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carolina Beach Elementary School serves the local community, providing education from kindergarten through fifth grade. The town’s boardwalk is a central attraction, featuring shops, restaurants, and seasonal amusement rides. The nearby Carolina Beach State Park offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and the unique Venus flytrap plant. The annual Carolina Beach Music Festival, one of the oldest beach music festivals in the country, draws large crowds each summer. Additionally, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, located just a short drive away, provides educational exhibits on marine life.

Kure Beach

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,000 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28449
• Latitude and Longitude: 33.9960° N, 77.9075° W

Location and History

Kure Beach is a small coastal town situated on the southern end of Pleasure Island, adjacent to Carolina Beach. Incorporated in 1947, it was named after Hans Kure, a Danish immigrant who established a fishery in the area in the late 19th century. The town has retained its quaint, small-town atmosphere, with a focus on family-friendly beaches and natural attractions. Its history is closely linked to maritime activities and tourism, which continue to be central to its identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

While Kure Beach does not have its own schools, students typically attend institutions in nearby Carolina Beach or Wilmington. The town is home to the historic Kure Beach Fishing Pier, one of the oldest on the Atlantic coast, offering fishing opportunities and scenic views. Fort Fisher State Historic Site, located at the southern tip of the island, preserves the remnants of a Civil War-era fort and offers educational programs. The Fort Fisher State Recreation Area provides unspoiled beaches and trails, ideal for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the town hosts the annual Kure Beach Street Festival, featuring local arts, crafts, and entertainment.

Wrightsville Beach

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,500 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28480
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.2082° N, 77.7960° W

Location and History

Wrightsville Beach is a town located on a barrier island east of Wilmington, accessible via a drawbridge over the Intracoastal Waterway. Incorporated in 1899, it has long been a favored destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The town’s development was spurred by the construction of the Seacoast Railroad in the late 19th century, which connected it to Wilmington and facilitated tourism. Over the years, Wrightsville Beach has evolved into a vibrant community known for its pristine beaches and active lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wrightsville Beach Elementary School serves the local community, offering education from kindergarten through fifth grade. The town is renowned for its wide, sandy beaches and clear waters, making it a hotspot for surfing, paddleboarding, and sailing. The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History provides insights into the area’s past, including exhibits on the early days of tourism and the impact of hurricanes.