The Best Neighborhoods to Build In Brunswick County NC

TL;DR: Where Should You Build in Brunswick County?

For coastal living, Southport and Oak Island are top picks. For space and custom flexibility, Bolivia or Shallotte may be a better fit. Leland offers master-planned living close to Wilmington, while Sunset Beach is great for a slower pace.

Why Are So Many People Building in Brunswick County?

According to recent reports, Brunswick County continues to lead the state in growth. More than 2,000 new homes are in planning stages right now (read more).

People are drawn by:

• Coastal lifestyle with lower property taxes than Wilmington
   

• Custom build potential on private lots
   

• Master-planned communities with amenities
   

• Room to breathe and grow without giving up access to services
   

But each part of the county offers a different build experience. Some move faster, some require more permits, and some give you full design freedom.

Where Are the Best Places to Build in Brunswick County?

Is Leland a Good Place to Build?

Yes, if you want proximity to Wilmington and a community feel.

Leland is booming. It offers easy access to Wilmington while still being in Brunswick County. Popular neighborhoods like Brunswick Forest and Compass Pointe attract retirees, families, and relocators alike.

What to expect in Leland:

• Most new developments have HOAs and design approvals
   

• Permitting may take longer due to high volume
   

• Lot availability is declining near central Leland
   

• Close to medical care, groceries, golf, and river access
   

Some buyers are now looking just outside Leland in places like Winnabow, where build timelines can be more relaxed and land may be more available.

What About Building in Southport?

Southport is ideal for charm, history, and walkability.

This coastal town is perfect for those who want a slower pace, porches, and easy access to water. It’s popular with retirees and second-home buyers.

Things to consider in Southport:

• Smaller lot sizes mean more vertical designs
   

• Historic district overlays may require additional approvals
   

• Build times may stretch due to town-specific permitting
   

• Cost of land near water is higher
   

If you value coastal culture, good seafood, and walking to local shops, Southport is a standout.

Is Bolivia NC Good for Building a Custom Home?

Yes, especially for space, affordability, and long-term growth.

Bolivia is less dense, making it a top pick for buyers wanting acreage or flexibility. Huge new developments have been approved nearby, so land values may rise in the next few years (read more).

Building in Bolivia offers:

• Larger lots, lower price per acre
   

• Straightforward permitting process
   

• Peaceful, wooded settings
   

• Some neighborhoods with river or marsh views
   

You’ll want to confirm utilities, internet access, and school zoning if you’re building for a growing family.

How Difficult Is It to Build on Oak Island?

It’s very doable with the right builder—but expect coastal challenges.

Oak Island homes must meet coastal and wind zone requirements. That means stronger foundations, flood elevation planning, and strict structural guidelines. But the upside is simple: walkable beach access and high resale potential.

Building here may include:

• Hurricane-rated roofing and impact windows
   

• Flood zone elevation checks and insurance
   

• Limited lot sizes, especially near the water
   

• Seasonal permit windows for some shoreline lots
   

Many homeowners use Oak Island homes as vacation or rental properties, but custom builds are on the rise for permanent residents too.

What’s It Like to Build in Sunset Beach or Calabash?

Quiet, scenic, and slower-paced.

These towns near the South Carolina border are home to several golf courses, waterfront creeks, and low-density neighborhoods. You’ll find some of the most affordable lots here, with plenty of privacy.

Expect:

• Peaceful neighborhoods
   

• Simple permitting
   

• More limited retail or dining nearby
   

• Access to both NC and SC amenities
   

It’s a great choice for retirees or remote workers who want a calm place to build.

Is Shallotte Worth Considering?

Yes, especially if you want more value for your build budget.

Shallotte sits roughly between Southport and Sunset Beach and is beginning to develop more retail and infrastructure. It’s close to Hwy 17, so you can still access Wilmington or Myrtle Beach without much hassle.

Good to know:

• Larger, affordable lots
   

• New shopping centers and healthcare growing in the area
   

• Build timelines tend to be moderate
   

• Some rural lots may require septic or well systems
   

If you want space without being too far off-grid, Shallotte offers a strong middle ground.

What Should I Ask Before Choosing a Neighborhood?

To avoid delays, added costs, or surprises during your build, ask these questions:

• Does the neighborhood have an active HOA or design approval board?
   

• Are permits taking longer than normal in this town or county?
   

• Will my lot require flood insurance, elevation, or soil tests?
   

• Are utilities available on site, or will I need private systems?
   

• How close are schools, healthcare, and grocery stores?
   

You can also reach out to Brandon Construction Group to talk through these before you commit to a lot.

Build Your Dream Home in Brunswick County

Brunswick County has a little bit of everything, from golf course communities to tucked-away beach lots. But not all neighborhoods work the same when it comes to building.

Some offer design freedom with no HOA. Others offer walkable amenities and built-in value. Your best neighborhood depends on how you plan to live, not just what looks good on a map.

Brandon Construction Group has built homes all across Brunswick County. We can walk your lot, review site conditions, and help you decide which area fits your goals and your timeline.

Check out our past builds or contact us to learn more about the neighborhoods we know best.

Let’s build where it really makes sense—for your life, your budget, and your future.