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.
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.