Southeastern North Carolina has benefited in recent years from the adventurous spirit of individuals and families who fall in love with the area and bring their special talents, energies and abilities to the coast. Settling in one of the many golf course communities, beaches or comfortable subdivisions, or opting for several acres in the country, these people often bring with them their own businesses, thereby providing new jobs, sometimes in new sectors, thus boosting the economy in ways not previously seen in the area. The easygoing lifestyle and pristine environment attract them; the friendly neighbors and thriving business environment keep them here.

These people and others have contributed to this area becoming one of the fastest growing regions of the state for the past several years. According to the 2000 US census, the county's 43.5 percent growth in population exceeded the state's overall 21.4 percent growth in the '90s. The economic boom has been both a blessing and a challenge. In response, significant infrastructure upgrades are underway with an eye toward expanded sewer and water facilities. Business development continues as the increasing population requires additional jobs and retail and professional services. Additionally, Brunswick County has had more than 70 plant announcements since 1990, creating 3500 new jobs and more than $220 million in new capital investment. The county's unemployment rate remains near 4.5 percent, slightly below North Carolina's unemployment rate of 5.1 percent.

Please see the Area Town Site Listings below for more information.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Brunswick County is the fifth fastest growing county in North Carolina, yet we still have that small town atmosphere. One of the largest counties in the state, geographically, our population remains relatively small at 83,787 (from 2004 census). Local government officials have met the challenge of steady growth with improved infrastructure, expanding health care facilities, greater educational opportunities, cultural events; and they continue to keep a close eye on our county’s future.

Brunswick County Land Area – 855 square miles
Brunswick County Year 2004 Population – 83,787
County Population Density - 85.45 Per Sq Mile

Municipal Population Table}2000 Population by Age*
0-14 years 15,241
15-24 years 7,032
25-34 years 9,228
35-44 years 9,648
45-54 years 10,562
55-64 years 8,697
65-74 years 8,011
75 years and up 4,724
Total persons 73,143

Estimated Peak Season Population by Year*
1990 153,000
1995 178,120
2000 190,480

POPULATION PROJECTIONS*
Year Population
2005 83,881
2010 93,753
2020 112,885

*Facts and figures provided by the Brunswick County Planning Department and the Brunswick County Economic Development Commission
provided by Brunswick Chamber of Commerce