Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Oak Island
What is the cost of living?
The cost of living measurement is slightly above the national average. The official index measurement is 109, which means it’s about 9% above the national average. However, this remains relatively affordable for living in a coastal area. Groceries, utilities, and other services are very manageable. Homeowners’ insurance and the costs associated with owning a house are a major factor in the cost-of-living index.
Is the housing market competitive?
Homes in this area are popular because buyers seek to live here for its affordability when it comes to coastal real estate. A mix of single-family homes, new construction, and multifamily properties. The market can get competitive, and properties can sell very quickly in the most desirable areas.
What should homeowners expect for hurricane season?
Oak Island is a barrier island, which means it comes under hurricane territory. Hurricane season is traditionally June through November. Many properties are within FEMA flood zones and require additional flood insurance coverage with standard homeowners insurance. There are many elevated homes in the area. Locals take on the mindset that proper preparedness helps ensure success in getting through a storm.
Is it a good area for year-round living?
There are several people who enjoy living on Oak Island year-round. Summers do have more activity with tourists coming into the area. Winters are mild, peaceful, and quiet. There are several services that operate year-round, as well as the ability to access neighboring communities for daily life needs.
What are the schools like?
Public schools are part of the Brunswick County Schools school district and are rated above average. Several families bus from the island to the mainland to utilize public educational institutions in the area.
Is Oak Island family-friendly?
Oak Island is considered very family-friendly, and there are families that live on the island year-round. Families enjoy a laid-back, quieter lifestyle. People know that it is full of great community activities and love that the area is very community-driven, and people tend to form a close community.
What about healthcare, groceries, and daily essentials?
There are several places to run daily errands and find necessities locally. Major shopping and specialized care are a little further out in areas like Southport, Leland, Supply, or Wilmington. All of which are not very far from the island. Hospital care is often accessed at Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center.
What is the weather like?
Oak Island experiences mild coastal weather with four seasons. The seasonal changes are subtle. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild. It is incredibly rare to experience freezing temperatures. The annual rainfall is 55 inches, and there is no snow. It is easy to experience and enjoy the outdoor spaces of the island all year.
What is commuting like?
Oak Island is small and has a very small population, and there are a few commercial amenities on the island itself. This means that many people who live on the island in the workforce commute to neighboring areas for jobs. There are bridges and causeways that make commuting convenient to the mainland. Though commuting can get a little bit slower during the summer when there are tourists, and during a significant storm.
What is the daily life vibe like?
Oak Island provides a relaxed atmosphere focused on enjoying outdoor fun and events. There are some great dining venues to enjoy relaxed evenings. Many people enjoy volunteering for local community organizations. Oak Island has a classic North Carolina coastal lifestyle that fosters strong community ties. If you are planning on relocating to the area, many people advise visiting at different times of the year to truly get a feel for how the island culture is.