Demographics and Statistics

The 2.2 square miles of Southport is home to about 3,500 full-time residents, more than a 20 percent increase over a decade. Many of these residents consist of retirees who have found the peaceful and scenic setting an ideal place to settle in their later years. The main make-up of the population, though, is families, with 62 percent of the community consisting of family households. Oak Island's 8 square miles is home to more than 7,000 full-time residents, and Bald Head Island is notably small, with close to 200 permanent residents. For all of these areas, it should be noted that their reposeful and aesthetic nature bring in a heavy influx of tourists during the summer months. If you'd like more information on specific demographics, check out the latest U.S. census.