Choose OKI

Location

The Town of Oak Island offers an ideal location to open your business due to its unique combination of natural beauty, thriving community, and strategic positioning. Nestled along the stunning coastline, Oak Island attracts both tourists and residents seeking a tranquil and picturesque environment.

Its pristine beaches, lush parks, and scenic waterways provide a serene backdrop that enhances the overall experience for customers and employees alike. The town's close-knit community fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, creating a strong customer base and potential partnerships with local organizations.

Oak Island's strategic location offers easy access to major transportation routes, making it convenient for both regional and out-of-town visitors. With its natural charm, engaged community, and strategic positioning, the Town of Oak Island is the perfect location to establish and grow your business.

Demographics

Oak Island is a city located in Brunswick County North Carolina. With a 2023 population of 9,683, it is the 95th largest city in North Carolina. Oak Island is currently growing at a rate of 4.43% annually and its population has increased by 13.9% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 8,501 in 2020. Spanning over 20 miles, Oak Island has a population density of 519 people per square mile.

The average household income in Oak Island is $89,714 with a poverty rate of 8.78%. The median rental costs in recent years comes to $984 per month. The average Oak Island home value is $511,110 up 7.9% over the past year and goes to pending in around 29 days. The median age in Oak Island is 60 years, 60.2 years for males, and 59.9 years for females.

Additional demographics: May-September population is 49,129; 2011-2021 Growth was 20.1%

Quality of Life

Cultural Arts & Attractions

Oak Island Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse is a symbol of Oak Island and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the rich maritime history of the region.

Summer Concert Series: During the summer months, Oak Island hosts a series of outdoor concerts featuring local and regional musicians. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live music against the backdrop of the beautiful coastal setting.

Farmers & Artisan Market: Held seasonally, the farmer's market showcases local produce, handmade crafts, artisanal food products, and more. It's a great place to experience the local flavors and connect with the community.

801 Ocean Event Center: 801 Ocean, Oak Island's premier oceanfront venue, is the ideal location for all types of celebrations and events. Open year round, this inviting event space hosts weddings, social, and corporate events and can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Nature Center: Explore the natural beauty of Oak Island at the Nature Center, which features exhibits, educational programs, and trails that highlight the local flora and fauna.

Community Center: The Community Center is a hub for cultural activities and gatherings. It hosts classes, workshops, and community events, providing opportunities for residents and visitors to engage in the arts.

Oak Island Art Guild: The Oak Island Art Guild promotes and supports local artists in Oak Island. They organize art shows, exhibitions, and workshops, fostering a vibrant arts community.

Education Center: Located on NE 46th St; learn about sea turtles, crabs, dolphins, and other classic sea animals as area volunteers share insight into many of the coasts biggest challenges and what we can do to help. the Ocean Education Center holds various youth programs throughout the summer, so be sure to stay tuned for more summer fun just around the corner!

Recreation

Oak Island Recreation Department: The Recreation department in Oak Island hosts various cultural events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, festivals, and theater performances.

Oak Island Beaches and Parks: The beaches and parks of Oak Island offer a serene and picturesque setting that inspires creativity and relaxation. Take a stroll along the beach, have a picnic in the park, or simply enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Fishing: Oak Island offers excellent fishing opportunities, both from the beach and offshore. Cast a line from the pier, charter a fishing boat, or try your luck surf fishing. The area is known for its abundant fish species, including flounder, red drum, and king mackerel.

Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the scenic waterways around Oak Island by renting a kayak or canoe. Paddle through marshes, creeks, and the Intracoastal Waterway, and get up close to the diverse coastal wildlife.

Golfing: Oak Island is home to several golf courses, including Oak Island Par 3 Golf Course, that offer beautiful fairways and challenging play. Golf enthusiasts can tee off and enjoy a round of golf while taking in the coastal views.

Biking: Oak Island has bike-friendly roads and paths, making it a great destination for cycling enthusiasts. Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the island at your own pace.

Tennis & Pickleball: Oak Island offers public tennis courts where visitors can enjoy a friendly match or improve their skills. Grab your racquet and have some fun on the courts.

Water Sports: Engage in various water sports, such as paddle boarding, jet skiing, and kiteboarding. Take advantage of the coastal breezes and make the most of the water activities available.

Nature Trails and Parks: Oak Island has nature trails and parks that provide opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Explore the diverse ecosystems and enjoy the serenity of the island's natural surroundings.

Wildlife Viewing: Oak Island is home to an array of coastal wildlife. From dolphins swimming offshore to bird species like herons and pelicans, nature enthusiasts can observe and appreciate the abundant wildlife in the area.

Healthcare

Medical Clinics: Oak Island has medical clinics that provide primary care services, including general check-ups, preventive care, and treatment for common illnesses and injuries. These clinics often have physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals available to attend to patients' medical needs.

Urgent Care Centers: In case of non-life-threatening emergencies or after-hours medical concerns, Oak Island has urgent care centers. These facilities offer prompt medical attention for minor injuries, illnesses, and other urgent healthcare needs.

Pharmacy Services: Oak Island has pharmacies where you can fill prescriptions, purchase over-the-counter medications, and obtain healthcare products. These pharmacies often have knowledgeable pharmacists who can provide guidance on medication usage and answer questions.

Dental Care: Oak Island has dental clinics and practices that offer a range of dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other oral health treatments. Dentists and dental hygienists are available to provide comprehensive dental care.

Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic services are available in Oak Island, offering treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, spinal health, and pain management. Chiropractors provide adjustments, therapies, and personalized treatment plans to address patients' specific needs.

Physical Therapy: Oak Island has physical therapy clinics that provide rehabilitation services, injury recovery, and assistance with mobility. Physical therapists offer personalized treatment plans to help patients regain strength, mobility, and functionality.

Mental Health Services: Oak Island has mental health clinics and professionals who offer counseling, therapy, and support for individuals facing mental health challenges. These services may include individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management.

Emergency Services: Oak Island has emergency medical services, including ambulance services, to respond to emergencies and provide transportation to nearby hospitals if needed.

It's important to note that specific healthcare providers and services may vary, and it's advisable to research and contact individual clinics or providers for detailed information about their offerings, hours of operation, and appointment availability.

Education

Public Schools: Oak Island is served by the Brunswick County Schools district, which includes public schools for students from kindergarten through high school. These schools provide a comprehensive curriculum and educational resources to support students' academic and personal growth.

Charter Schools: Oak Island is also located near several charter schools within the Brunswick County area. Charter schools offer alternative educational approaches and specialized programs that cater to specific interests or learning styles.

Private Schools: There are private schools in and around Oak Island that provide additional educational options. Private schools often offer smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and unique curricula.

Early Childhood Education: Oak Island has preschools and early childhood education centers that offer learning programs for young children. These centers focus on early development, socialization, and preparing children for kindergarten.

Library Resources: The Oak Island Branch Library provides access to educational resources, including books, e-books, research materials, and computer facilities. The library often hosts educational programs, workshops, and community events that support lifelong learning.

Infrastructure

Fiber & Telecom

Focus Broadband: Focus Broadband is a local internet service provider that offers high-speed internet access to residents and businesses in Oak Island. They provide reliable internet connections and may offer various plans and packages to meet different needs.

AT&T: AT&T is a nationwide telecommunication company that offers internet, television, and phone services. In Oak Island, AT&T provides internet services, including fiber-optic internet, which offers fast and reliable connectivity.

Electricity

Brunswick Electric Membership Corporation: Brunswick Electric is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that serves Oak Island and surrounding areas. They provide reliable electricity services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Brunswick Electric offers competitive rates and a focus on community involvement.

Duke Energy: Duke Energy is a major electric utility company that serves a large portion of North Carolina, including Oak Island. They provide electricity to residential and business customers. Duke Energy offers various services, including online account management and energy-saving programs.

Both Brunswick Electric and Duke Energy are known to provide electric services in Oak Island, NC. It's advisable to contact the providers directly or visit their websites for detailed information about services, rates, and coverage in your specific area.

Water & Sewer

The Town of Oak Island takes pride in providing reliable and efficient water and sewer services to its residents and businesses. Our water and sewer infrastructure is designed to meet the needs of the community while prioritizing quality, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Water Services: Our water services encompass the treatment, distribution, and management of clean and safe drinking water. We operate a modern water treatment plant that utilizes advanced processes to ensure the highest water quality standards are met. Through rigorous testing and monitoring, we strive to provide residents with water that meets or exceeds all federal and state regulations for safety and purity. Our skilled team of professionals is dedicated to maintaining and upgrading our water infrastructure to ensure a consistent and reliable supply.

Sewer Services: The Town of Oak Island operates a comprehensive sewer system that efficiently collects and treats wastewater. Our sewer infrastructure includes a network of pipes, lift stations, and a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility. We are committed to protecting the environment and preventing pollution by effectively treating wastewater before it is safely discharged. Our system undergoes regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure optimal performance and minimize the impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

Billing and Customer Service: To facilitate convenient and efficient billing, the Town of Oak Island provides a user-friendly system for water and sewer service billing. Our customer service representatives are available to address any inquiries, resolve concerns, and provide assistance regarding water and sewer services. We are dedicated to delivering excellent customer service and ensuring that residents have access to the information and support they need.

Cape Fear Regional Jetport

Cape Fear Regional Jetport is a premier aviation facility located in Oak Island, NC, boasting a range of services and amenities for private jet owners, pilots, and passengers. With their NATA Safety First PLST certified staff, Jet-A and 100LL fuel options, 24-hour self-serve fuel kiosk, various support services, and a well-designed parallel taxiway, they strive to provide a premium aviation experience that prioritizes safety, convenience, and efficiency.

Cape Fear Regional Jetport at Howie Franklin Field generates more than $350,000,000 in economic output, ranking 5th among all North Carolina airports.

Taxes & Incentives

Local Taxes

Property Tax: The Town of Oak Island levies a property tax annually. The Town Council determines the tax rate during the budget process and establishes the tax rate per $100 valuation when adopting the annual budget ordinance in June.

Tax Rate: The 2024 tax rate is 0.16 per $100 value. The rate is broken up with 0.13 going to the general fund, and .03 going to sand fund.

State Taxes

The Corporate Income Tax Rate for North Carolina is 2.5%. The state phased in a single sales factor in the 2017 tax year, with a 100% sales factor imposed in the 2018 tax year.

State & County Incentives

Brunswick County recognizes the need to provide programs and financial support to strengthen and diversify the County’s economy by developing incentives. These incentives may be awarded at the discretion of the Brunswick County Board of Commissioners. Brunswick County works with economic development allies at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina and others to develop an incentives package to meet the needs of our clients.

North Carolina’s targeted, performance-based incentive programs help companies that are locating and doing business in North Carolina by lessening the tax burden and lowering overall costs to the company.


Contact Us

For assistance with any of the information listed, please contact the Department by calling 910-201-8015, or using the Staff Directory or Contact Form provided below.

Contact Form