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I just pulled up the crime stats on Wilmington - that is seriously scaring me! - I am so torn on where to move to, want access to water but want SAFE area, I've NEVER had to worry no matter where I've lived.
Sorry to add onto this thread but there are just too many Wilmington threads (NO idea why it doesn't have it's own sub-forum).
Have you checked the City-Data page on Wilmington? I think everyone should read these pages before asking questions on the forum, for factual information.
Use the drop-down map for various demographic factors. It defaults to income, which is generally a pretty good correlation with crime. You'll see that the poorest parts are in the western, more "inner city" ("city" being relative) part, with the more affluent parts closer to the water.
The crime stats at the bottom show a great reduction in crime in the past decade or so, and as a lifelong North Carolinian, I will reassure you that nobody thinks of "Wilmington" when they think of crime.
If crime is your worse fear, don't fret. But if you have any misgivings, by all means take a trip and visit (which anyone should do anytime they're thinking of moving, if feasible). Spring is coming and the weather will be great, and if you go before Memorial Day, the summer traffic shouldn't be too bad yet.
I've been checking Realtor.com for houses just to get an idea of styles, prices, etc. - are there any specific zip codes that are better or not?
I also have a concern about medical insurance (I'm on the Healthcare.gov now) until Medicare kicks in because of disability (there is a 2 yr. wait) - I just picked a Wilmington zip at random just so I could compare and I'm amazed at how much more it is than my area (it doesn't appear that there is any competition and just BC/BS?)
I've been checking Realtor.com for houses just to get an idea of styles, prices, etc. - are there any specific zip codes that are better or not?
I also have a concern about medical insurance (I'm on the Healthcare.gov now) until Medicare kicks in because of disability (there is a 2 yr. wait) - I just picked a Wilmington zip at random just so I could compare and I'm amazed at how much more it is than my area (it doesn't appear that there is any competition and just BC/BS?)
1. I'm not sure of your price range or what you mean by "better", but 28411, 28403, 28409 and 28412 are all decent, middle-class neighborhoods with varying prices. The college is in 28403, and has some lower budget student rentals.
2. We move to North Carolina from Maryland, and our Medicare premiums are higher than in Maryland. People say the the lack of competition keeps premiums higher. And yes, it is primarily BC/BS. The actual cost of doctors is not too bad.
Thank you for the zip info.! By "better" I mean: safe area, not where I have to be terrified of crime. I'm actually looking to try to get something around 200,000 if possible. I've been realizing that although housing is more here, some things are less: groceries, insurance (who knew?), etc. - things for people to consider.
I'm in City of Alex. - there is no crime here in my little neighborhood and I feel very safe - it's a decent, middle class neighborhood - not high traffic but convenient to tons of places.
Thank you for the zip info.! By "better" I mean: safe area, not where I have to be terrified of crime. I'm actually looking to try to get something around 200,000 if possible. I've been realizing that although housing is more here, some things are less: groceries, insurance (who knew?), etc. - things for people to consider.
I understand. The zip codes I mentioned are all areas where you should not be terrified of crime. It is entirely possible to find a small house or townhouse around $200,000 in an area that is reasonably safe.
Note that I have omitted the downtown and an area with housing projects.
Thanks again goldenage1 - I saw houses in those zips I liked (apparently lime/pea green is/was a popular wall color, LOL) - Now that I "think" it's warming up, I want to go stay in a hotel for a couple days and check out the area.
Just to update, I'll be making another trip soon to check out areas (I'll be staying in New Bern at cousins) but will check that area, Wilmington, etc. - wish me luck (I need some motivation to get moving on decluttering, etc. here to put current house on the market)
I just moved here in February from Alexandria and rented a house in Kure Beach while my house was being built. I am right off Market Street 28405 and love the location. Everything is minutes away. I have never felt unsafe here, like any city be careful where you go. So far I have been very happy with my decisions. If you move, join the Wilmington New Comers group, it is wonderful.
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(I need some motivation to get moving on decluttering, etc. here to put current house on the market)
