Wilmington Island in Georgia’s Chatham County is located midway between bustling Savannah and the beachfront neighborhoods of Tybee Island. It is one of the more affluent communities in the Savannah Metropolitan Statistical Area. Wilmington Island real estate boasts of convenient access via Johnny Mercer Boulevard that loops through the north end of the island to rejoin State Highway 80.
Steady Population Growth
Figures from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate that population on the island was slightly over 15,000 in 2010 with the median age of residents estimated to be 41.5 years compared to the state median of 40 years. Locals are an educated sort with most having earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. In terms of gender distribution, the male to female ratio is about even for all age groups. Population density is fairly low at 1,792 residents per square mile, which is an indication of a laid back lifestyle according to Wilmington island real estate agents. The median household income in 2011 was estimated at $67,161, which is significantly higher than the state median of $46,000. The unemployment rate for this area is below the state average. Most residents of Wilmington Island real estate commute to Savannah to work with travel times averaging 16 minutes.
State of the Housing Market
Wilmington Island real estate listings draw young families because of the area’s proximity to schools and family-oriented activities. Median home value is estimated at $227,935. This figure is substantially higher than Georgia’s state average of $147,000. Wilmington Island real estate listings indicate that the housing stock consists of detached single-family homes, attached condos and townhouses and multi-family communities. Wilmington Island real estate listings are spread out over a total area of 8.45 square miles with a significant number of properties having water views. The Zillow Home Value Index indicates a 6 percent rise in home prices on a year to year basis. Wilmington Island real estate companies also report increased interest in local properties, indicating a healthy housing market.
Attractions and Amenities on Wilmington Island
The Islands Mall Shopping Shopping Center serves as the gateway to the community with its strategic location on Johnny Mercer Boulevard. When it comes to family-oriented places, Wilmington Island real estate agents point to the golf and tennis facilities and several marinas located along the banks of the Wilmington River. The Islands Miniature Golf and Games is located on the east end. A local branch of the Live Oak Public Library System is located on Wilmington Island Road. School-age children attend private schools on the island or public schools in nearby Whitemarsh Island. Several churches of different denominations are clustered around the central section of the island including Wilmington Island Methodist, First Baptist of the Islands, St. Francis Episcopal and Wilmington Island Presbyterian.
The Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge is west of Wilmington Island across the river. This 10,000-acre refuge includes salt marshes, dunes, tidal creeks and a maritime forest. According to Wilmington Island real estate agents, this area is a refuge for herons, egrets and nesting loggerhead turtles. Beachcombers, birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts will be charmed by 29 miles of dirt trails and a beach area stretching seven miles. Consult a Wilmington Island real estate company to better explore the housing options and amenities on this island paradise.