New Hanover County vs. Pender County: Where’s the Money Going for Commercial Real Estate in 2025?
As Southeastern North Carolina continues to experience population growth and infrastructure expansion, investors and business owners are paying close attention to the commercial real estate landscape, particularly in New Hanover and Pender counties. In 2025, both counties offer unique advantages, but the flow of capital tells a compelling story about where the smartest commercial real estate investments are happening.
New Hanover County: A Mature Market with Consistent Returns
New Hanover County, home to the vibrant city of Wilmington, remains a cornerstone for commercial real estate sales in the region. With a well-established business ecosystem, diverse industries, and robust infrastructure, the area continues to attract investors across all sectors.
Key Strengths:
- Thriving Office Space Market: From downtown Wilmington to midtown corridors and Wrightsville Avenue, New Hanover County offers high-demand office buildings that appeal to legal, medical, and financial professionals.
- Port Access & Logistics: The Port of Wilmington, a major economic driver, supports warehouse and industrial real estate activity that continues to expand as shipping routes grow and e-commerce accelerates.
- Population Density: As one of the most populated areas in southeastern North Carolina, New Hanover supports strong foot traffic and demand for retail, mixed-use, and hospitality developments.
Recent Trends:
According to data from the Cape Fear Commercial Real Estate Outlook and Cape Fear Realtors, office vacancy rates in Wilmington remain low despite national fluctuations, with average lease rates showing a modest year-over-year increase. Investors view the county as a relatively safe bet for long-term returns through property appreciation and reliable leasing.
Pender County: The Frontier of Commercial Opportunity
In contrast, Pender County is emerging as a commercial real estate hot spot, particularly for those seeking ground-floor investment opportunities. With key towns like Hampstead, Surf City, and Burgaw seeing rapid population increases, demand is rising for everything from retail centers and business parks to office space and light industrial development.
Why Pender Is Heating Up:
- Lower Entry Costs: Commercial property prices are generally lower in Pender than in New Hanover, allowing investors to maximize ROI on undeveloped land and new construction projects.
- Strategic Location: Located along major highways like I-40 and US-17 and offering proximity to Wilmington and Jacksonville, Pender is well-positioned for businesses seeking expansion without the congestion or pricing of more urban counties.
- Economic Growth: According to NC Commerce, Pender County has one of the highest projected population growth rates in the state through 2030, fueling demand for local services, office buildings, and community infrastructure.
Emerging Sectors:
Retail and restaurant developments are flourishing near Surf City and Hampstead, while logistics and light manufacturing are making headway along the county’s inland corridors. As residential rooftops rise, so does the need for professional services, opening the door for medical suites, coworking hubs, and standalone office space investments.
Commercial Real Estate Sales & Property Management: What You Need to Know
Whether you're considering Class A office buildings in downtown Wilmington or a multi-tenant strip center near Surf City, partnering with a knowledgeable brokerage is essential. At Sun Coast Partners Commercial, we specialize in:
- Commercial real estate sales
- Property management services
- Market analysis & investment strategy
- Leasing solutions for businesses of all sizes
Our team understands the distinct economic profiles of both New Hanover and Pender counties and can help you evaluate current opportunities with long-term potential.
Where Should You Invest in 2025?
If your focus is on stability, existing infrastructure, and a dense customer base, New Hanover County remains a stronghold for office space, medical buildings, and established business ventures. For those looking to capitalize on growth and enter a market before it becomes saturated, Pender County offers unmatched commercial opportunity at a lower upfront cost.
In truth, savvy investors are exploring both counties, often using New Hanover’s cash flow to fund higher-risk, higher-reward developments in Pender.
Ready to Invest in Southeastern NC?
Contact Sun Coast Partners Commercial today for expert insight, tailored market data, and access to some of the region’s most promising commercial real estate listings. Whether you're focused on buying, selling, or managing properties, our team is here to help your portfolio thrive in 2025 and beyond.