Overview
Located in Coastal North Carolina, Leland is one of the fastest growing towns in the state, quickly becoming known as a destination for local culture and public greenspaces. With golf courses and river walks, as well as plenty of local shops and eateries, residents will enjoy everything the town has to offer.
Climate & Geography
The climate in Leland is categorized as humid subtropical, which means summers are hot and humid, while winters are short and mild. Residents can expect much more rain than the national average, little to no snowfall, and approximately 211 days of sunshine throughout each year.
The surrounding terrain is mostly made up of coastal lowlands. The city is partially bordered to the east by the Brunswick River and the smaller town of Belville. The Cape Fear River is also just east of town, which runs south out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Some of the popular sights, landmarks, and outdoor activities in Leland include the Brunswick Riverwalk at Belville, Westgate Nature Park, Disc Golf Course, and Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation. Residents can also become involved in the Leland Cultural Arts Center, an arts hub that hosts live music, comedy, and theater productions.
Residents can also visit neighboring towns and cities including Wilmington, a coastal port city, and Myrtle Beach, a popular summer resort town in South Carolina.
Cost of Living & Taxes
Leland’s overall cost of living is higher than the state average, but quite close to the national average. The highest individual index is health care cost, at 20% above the national average, but all other indexes are close to or below average.
North Carolina is considered somewhat tax friendly for retirees. Social Security benefits are exempt from taxes at the state level, however all other forms of retirement income are fully taxed with no deductions or exemptions outside the somewhat large standard deduction. Sales taxes are average, and property taxes are relatively low. Residents aged 65+ who meet certain income requirements may be eligible for a homestead exemption or a Circuit Breaker tax deferral program, to help offset property taxes.
Health Care
Highly performing hospitals that service this area include New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Wilmington Treatment Center, Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, J. Arthur Dosher Memorial Hospital, and Peder Memorial Hospital.