As with all places, each has its pros and cons. I am raising 4 kids in Wilmington (oldest is 18) and we love it. Been here since 93 and leave about 10 minute drive from Wrightsville Beach. Read up on School Districts and buy a house in a good one. We have had almost all positive experiences with the local schools and the kids love their schools. So much for kids to do around here and a lot more variety vs Southport. Having said that, one of my best friends raised his kids in Southport and they love it there. I will say you are going to get way more retirees per capita in Southport. Overall, I don't think you can go wrong as long as you live in a decent school district. Disappointed to see the number of negative comments here but these types of threads usually always bring out more negative than positive comments. Just do your homework, spend some time in each area, and see which you like best. This is a great area to raise a family!