Oak Island

Occupancy of the island swells from less than 8,000 year-round residents to in excess of 30,000-35,000 residents during the summer months. Although it is not isolated, being only 30 miles from Wilmington and 60 miles from Myrtle Beach, access to Oak Island is limited to one land route which intersects with the mainland just outside the town of Southport. A 4000-foot airstrip is located on the mainland, less than a five-minute drive from the island's bridge.

The local economy is dominated by tourism. Beyond providing an eclectic assortment of restaurants, shops, art galleries, family venues and a public golf course, Oak Island has a town park located just a few blocks from the ocean and several houses of worship, some of which offer oceanfront services during the summer season. This makes the island somewhat unique among the Brunswick County islands, as it easier to gain access to necessities such as grocery stores and doctor's offices without having to leave the island.

Due to the island's comparatively large interior, housing prices for non-beachfront residences are generally more affordable on Oak Island than on other nearby islands, such as Holden, Ocean Isle, or Sunset Beach.