Welcome home to Hampstead NC! Hampstead, the “seafood capital of the Carolinas,” encompasses much of the area along Highway 17 between the New Hanover County line and Surf City on Topsail Island. This growing community has plenty of waterfront and thoughtfully-developed communities, making it a great place to live. There is a small commercial presence in Hampstead, but most locals commute to Wilmington for work. For recreation, Hampstead residents head over the bridge in Surf City onto Topsail Island to enjoy a day in the sun, sand, and surf. Or hop in your boat, head to Lea Island, or cast a line near the Intracoastal Waterway, creeks, or Atlantic Ocean. The main event every year in Hampstead is the Spot Festival held in August, celebrating a local fish that is delicious fried and fun to catch.

Hampstead boasts warm summers and mild winters, attracting people from all over the United States to raise a family or retire. With great golf course communities such as Olde Pointe, Belvedere, and Castle Bay, you can enjoy both the beach and golf. The real estate market in Hampstead is thriving with many waterfront homes available. Popular neighborhoods include Deerfield, Washington Acres, and Pecan Grove in the south; and Pelican Reef, Dogwood Lakes, and the Virginia Creek area to the north.

Hampstead also has luxury waterfront homes with boat docks, marinas, and stunning water views. While million-dollar homes are present, there are also homes for various budgets, including townhomes, new constructions, and options for first-time buyers. The community is growing rapidly with new homes, apartments, and commercial businesses. Residents are looking forward to the construction of the Hampstead bypass on Highway 17, which will help maintain the small-town charm.

History

Hampstead, North Carolina, is a community with a rich history dating back to the early colonial period. Situated in Pender County, along the eastern coast of North Carolina, Hampstead has evolved from its early agricultural roots to become a thriving residential area with access to nearby beaches and recreational opportunities.

Hampstead was named after the 1740 plantation of John Mott, of Hempstead, Long Island. The Belvidere Plantation House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

Early Settlement and Colonial Era
The area now known as Hampstead was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cape Fear Indians. European settlers began to arrive in the early 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and opportunities for agriculture. The town of Hampstead itself was established in the 1730s and was originally known as Sloop Point.

During the colonial period, the region’s economy thrived on agriculture, with plantations producing crops such as tobacco, rice, and indigo. The area was also strategically important due to its location along the coast.

American Revolution and Civil War
Hampstead played a role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. In 1776, the nearby Moores Creek Bridge was the site of a significant battle, where Patriots successfully defeated Loyalist forces, helping to secure North Carolina for the Revolutionary cause.

While no major battles occurred in the immediate area during the Civil War, the conflict had a significant impact on the local economy and residents. Many Hampstead residents were involved in the war effort, and the town experienced the hardships and challenges of the era.

Post-Civil War Reconstruction and 20th Century
Following the Civil War, Hampstead, like many Southern towns, experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery. Agriculture remained central to the local economy, with farmers primarily growing crops like cotton and tobacco.

In the 20th century, Hampstead remained a small, rural community, with a focus on agriculture and fishing. However, with the expansion of nearby Wilmington and the development of transportation infrastructure, such as highways, Hampstead began to see gradual growth and development.

Recent Development
In recent decades, Hampstead has experienced significant growth and development, driven by its proximity to Wilmington and its appeal as a residential area. Subdivisions, shopping centers, and other amenities have been built to accommodate the growing population.

Today, Hampstead retains some of its rural charm while also offering modern amenities and access to nearby beaches and recreational opportunities.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, Hampstead, NC, is home to 7,016 residents, distributed across 1,946 households and 1,475 families. The population of Hampstead reflects a diverse community, with the majority being White (non-Hispanic), accounting for 85.09% of the population. Black or African American (non-Hispanic) residents make up 3.05%, and the remaining population is composed of Native American (0.38%), Asian (0.78%), Pacific Islander (0.06%), and individuals of other or mixed races (4.52%). Additionally, 6.11% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, adding to the cultural richness of the area.

Schools

Hampstead is served by four elementary schools: North Topsail Elementary, South Topsail Elementary, Topsail Elementary, and Surf City Elementary. Middle school students attend Topsail Middle School or Surf City Middle School. Topsail High School, located near the Hampstead Branch Library, provides comprehensive education for high school students.

Public Services

The Hampstead area is served by Pender EMS & Fire and the Pender County Sheriff’s Department. The Topsail Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol is also based in Hampstead.

Real Estate in Hampstead

Hampstead, NC, is rapidly growing and offers an exciting range of real estate opportunities. With its blend of coastal charm and modern amenities, Hampstead is an appealing location for those seeking a vibrant community with close proximity to beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for waterfront properties, golf course communities, or new construction homes, Hampstead has a diverse market to meet various needs and budgets.

As an experienced real estate professional since 1999, I specialize in the Hampstead area and beyond. My approach combines professional photography, comprehensive marketing strategies, and proactive client engagement to ensure your property receives maximum exposure and a swift sale. From luxury waterfront homes to affordable townhomes and new constructions, I am dedicated to finding the right fit for every buyer and seller.

If you’re interested in buying or selling a home in Hampstead, please contact me directly at 919-360-6754 or TadScottHomes@gmail.com. You can also fill out the contact form below to get in touch.

Conclusion

Hampstead, NC, seamlessly combines the charm of small-town living with the conveniences of modern life, making it an ideal place to call home. Its strategic location between Wilmington and the beaches of Topsail Island offers residents the perfect balance of tranquility and access to vibrant coastal activities. With its growing real estate market, from luxurious waterfront properties to affordable new constructions, Hampstead caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets.

The town’s rich history, welcoming community, and attractive amenities, such as golf courses and local events, contribute to its appeal. Hampstead’s pleasant climate, coupled with its proximity to major cities and beautiful coastal areas, enhances its attractiveness for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Whether you’re drawn by its historical roots, the opportunity to enjoy coastal living, or the promise of a close-knit community, Hampstead stands out as a place where you can truly thrive.

As Hampstead continues to grow and develop, it remains a picturesque and desirable location for anyone looking to experience the best of North Carolina’s coastal lifestyle. With its unique blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and modern conveniences, Hampstead offers an inviting environment that welcomes you to make it your home.