County guide
Brunswick County NC Real Estate | Brunswick Islands, Beaches & Golf
Last updated: February 27, 2026
Nickname
Brunswick Islands
Key Beaches
Holden Beach, Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach
Schools
Brunswick County Schools (22 schools, ~14,800 students)
Vibe
Beaches, golf, coastal
Brunswick County sits south of Wilmington along the Cape Fear Coast and South Carolina border. The Brunswick Islands — Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach — deliver relaxed barrier island living. Leland offers Wilmington-commute proximity and explosive growth. Golf communities and retirement-friendly neighborhoods dot the landscape.
Living in Brunswick County
Holden Beach has been recognized among America's top beaches by National Geographic Traveler. Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach offer a similar relaxed island pace. Leland has become one of the region's fastest-growing towns, with new subdivisions and amenities. Brunswick County Schools serves the area with 22 schools; see our schools & lifestyle guide.
Real Estate in Brunswick County
Property types range from oceanfront and soundfront to golf-course and inland. Prices vary by location; Brunswick often offers more affordable coastal entry than New Hanover. Flood zones apply in coastal areas. Our team provides coastal property analysis and flood zone guidance.
Newest homes for sale
Three of the most recent listings across coastal Carolina.
Explore Brunswick County
- Leland — Wilmington commute, fastest-growing
- Ocean Isle Beach — Resort beach, "Unchanged"
- Sunset Beach — Quiet island living
- Holden Beach — Top beach pick, National Geographic
Contact us for Brunswick County listings.
Cities & Communities
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Brunswick Islands?
The Brunswick Islands encompass Brunswick County's beach communities — Holden Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach, Oak Island, and others. The region is known for relaxed barrier-island beaches, golf communities, and a mix of year-round and vacation-home living.
Brunswick County Schools operates 22 public schools serving about 14,800 students. The district has an 85% graduation rate with performance above state averages in math and reading. See our [Brunswick County schools guide](/blog/brunswick-county-schools-lifestyle) for details.
Brunswick County is south of Wilmington with generally more affordable coastal options. Holden Beach, Ocean Isle, and Sunset Beach offer relaxed barrier island living. Leland provides Wilmington-commute proximity. Golf communities and retirement-friendly neighborhoods are widespread.