Brunswick County among fastest-growing in US as southeastern NC population rises

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows continued population growth across southeastern North Carolina, with Brunswick County ranking among the fastest-growing areas in the country.

According to the latest estimates, Brunswick County was the sixth fastest-growing county in the United States between 2024 and 2025, with a population increase of about 4.7 percent.

The Wilmington metro area is also seeing significant growth, ranking among the top metro areas nationwide with a population increase of about 2.6 percent during that same time period.

The data reflects a broader trend across the Southeast, where many of the fastest-growing counties are located.

In a statement posted on social media, Governor Josh Stein said more people moved to North Carolina from other states than to any other state.

“The newest data from the U.S. Census Bureau is in – and North Carolina is growing. More people moved to NC from other states than to any other state,” Stein wrote.

He also highlighted Brunswick and Pender counties as among the fastest-growing in the state, along with Johnston, Iredell and Franklin counties.

“The growth shows North Carolina continues to be the best place to live, work, and play,” Stein said. “As we grow, we have to take care to invest in our infrastructure and our people.”

Census data shows that while population growth continues, the pace of growth has slowed in many parts of the country, including metro areas overall.

Experts say population changes are being influenced by migration patterns, with more people moving to smaller and mid-sized counties, including those in coastal regions like southeastern North Carolina.