One-Story and Primary-on-Main Homes on the Southeastern NC Coast
The short answer: One-story homes are easy to find along the southeastern NC coast. Of the 5,838 homes for sale across New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Onslow and Duplin counties, 2,213 are one level (38%), with a middle asking price of about $338,000. If you're fine with an upstairs for guests, 3,699 homes (63%) have the primary bedroom on the main floor. Numbers are from the Hive MLS as of September 2026.
One-story vs. primary on main: what's the difference?
A one-story home has everything on one level: no stairs at all. A primary-on-main home has the owner's bedroom and bath on the main floor, but may have a second floor for guest rooms, a bonus room or storage. For many buyers, primary-on-main is the sweet spot: you live on one level day to day, and the upstairs is there when the family visits.
| Homes for sale | Middle asking price | |
|---|---|---|
| One-story (houses and townhomes) | 2,213 | $337,990 |
| Primary bedroom on the main floor | 3,699 | $436,615 |
| …of which have a second story | 1,781 | |
| Two-story single-family (for comparison) | $539,650 |
Where the one-story homes are
| Town | One-story for sale | Middle asking price | Primary on main |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington | 333 | $374,500 | 590 |
| Jacksonville | 253 | $269,000 | 309 |
| Leland | 153 | $379,000 | 387 |
| Southport | 145 | $389,000 | 257 |
| Calabash | 144 | $362,450 | 217 |
| Bolivia | 136 | $309,948 | 216 |
| Supply | 124 | $281,600 | 129 |
| Oak Island | 111 | $615,000 | 184 |
| Ocean Isle Beach | 77 | $375,000 | 157 |
| Shallotte | 73 | $331,600 | 108 |
Things to know before you buy one level on the coast
New construction is a big part of it
About 30% of the one-story homes for sale (656 of them) are new construction, mostly in Brunswick County and around Leland. That means builder incentives and warranties, but also HOAs and building lots that can be smaller than in older neighborhoods.
Check the elevation and flood zone
A one-story home near the water may be built up on a raised foundation or pilings, so "one level" can still mean a flight of steps to the front door. If stairs are the reason you want one level, check how you get in: garage entry, ramp, or elevator.
"Primary on main" is the bigger pool
If you're open to an upstairs you rarely use, your choices nearly double (3,699 vs. 2,213). A second floor can also make a smaller lot work and add resale appeal for families.
Buddy's take
One of the most popular areas for one-level luxury living, while maintaining an active lifestyle is the Village at Motts Landing, Riverlights and others.
Keep looking
- Every one-story home for sale in southeastern NC
- Every home with the primary bedroom on the main floor
- Leland vs. Wilmington: what you get for your money
Questions buyers ask
How many one-story homes are for sale near Wilmington, NC?
About 2,213 across our five counties right now, including 333 in Wilmington and 153 in Leland.
What does a one-story home cost on the southeastern NC coast?
The middle asking price is about $338,000. It ranges from around $270,000 in Jacksonville to about $615,000 on Oak Island.
What does "primary on main" mean?
The primary (owner's) bedroom is on the main living level. The house may still have a second floor for other bedrooms or a bonus room.
