Builderonline.com recently put Wilmington, NC on it's list of "Healthiest Markets of 2009."  Most markets in the country were down last year but looking closely at the numbers reveal that certain markets around the country have continued to outperform others in the past few years and are likely to conutinue the same this year.

Being close to the ocean and major Universities were 2 of the main traits common among the top markets.  The list was based on population trends, job growth, and housing demand and the rate of building permits. 

The population in Wilmington, over 352,000, has grown at a 4 percent annual rate for the last five years, which is well above the national average. Having four distinct seasons, it'sclose proximity to area beaches, and affordable housing (median home price is $198,700), are just about the national average.   Check out the list in full at http://www.builderonline.com/local-markets/the-healthiest-housing-markets-for-2009.aspx?printerfriendly=true