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St. James, NC
St. James, NC, is an upscale, gated community located near the charming town of Southport. Known for its luxurious resort-style living, St. James offers a unique blend of privacy, recreation, and access to the beautiful North Carolina coast. With world-class golf courses, a private marina, a beach club on nearby Oak Island, and a robust calendar of social activities, St. James is the ideal location for those seeking an active and comfortable lifestyle in a close-knit community.
This exclusive community attracts retirees, second-home buyers, and families alike, offering a peaceful, upscale retreat just minutes away from Southport’s historic downtown and the beaches of Oak Island.
Living in St. James
Real Estate
The real estate market in St. James is known for its luxury homes, many of which are located near golf courses, along the waterfront, or within private gated sections of the community. Home prices in St. James typically range from $450,000 to over $1 million, depending on location, size, and amenities.
- Property Types: St. James offers a variety of property types, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. Many homes are designed with modern, upscale finishes and offer amenities such as swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, and golf course views.
- Market Trends: The St. James real estate market is highly competitive, with many homes selling quickly due to the community’s desirability among retirees and second-home buyers.
- Investment Potential: While St. James primarily caters to full-time residents, there is potential for short-term rentals, especially for golf enthusiasts or those seeking a luxury vacation experience.
Featured Agents & Loan Officers
Education
Schools
St. James is served by the Brunswick County School District, providing residents access to quality public education. The schools serving the community include:
Southport Elementary School
South Brunswick Middle School
South Brunswick High School
These schools offer a well-rounded education, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses at the high school level, robust extracurricular programs, and small class sizes. In addition to the public school options, St. James families may also explore nearby private schools, including Southport Christian School and charter schools in the Brunswick County area.
Things to Do
Recreation and Amenities
St. James is designed for active living, with a variety of recreational opportunities available to residents. The community boasts:
- Four Championship Golf Courses: St. James is home to four world-class golf courses, each offering its own unique challenges and scenic views.
- Private Marina: The community’s private marina offers direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
- Beach Club on Oak Island: St. James residents have exclusive access to a private beach club on nearby Oak Island, complete with beachfront amenities and dining.
- Tennis & Fitness: St. James features multiple tennis courts, fitness centers, and walking trails, making it easy to stay active.
- Social Scene: The community has a vibrant social calendar, with events ranging from golf tournaments and wine tastings to holiday celebrations and themed dinners.
Important Stuff
Traffic & Commute
St. James offers a peaceful, gated environment with easy access to nearby towns and cities. The community is just a short drive from Southport’s historic downtown, the beaches of Oak Island, and the shopping and dining options of Wilmington.
- Commuting: Residents typically enjoy short commute times to local shops, restaurants, and medical facilities. For those working in nearby cities, St. James offers convenient access to major highways.
- Public Transportation: While St. James does not have extensive public transportation options, the area is car-friendly, with well-maintained roads and easy access to nearby towns.
Health & Medical Facilities
Residents of St. James have access to excellent healthcare services, with several hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices located within a short drive. The Dosher Memorial Hospital in Southport and Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia provide comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
For retirees, the area offers assisted living facilities and senior care services, ensuring that residents have access to healthcare as they age.
Community
Community & Lifestyle
The lifestyle in St. James is designed for relaxation, recreation, and socializing. With its range of luxury amenities and social clubs, residents can enjoy a busy calendar of events, from holiday parties and golf tournaments to fitness classes and wine tastings.
- Family-Friendly or Retiree-Focused: While the community is predominantly retiree-focused, younger families seeking an upscale lifestyle will also find plenty to enjoy.
- Volunteer & Social Clubs: St. James is home to a variety of social clubs, volunteer organizations, and hobby groups, allowing residents to connect with neighbors who share similar interests.
Important Stuff
Taxes
St. James property owners benefit from competitive tax rates, given the luxury amenities the town provides. The total property tax rate in St. James is approximately $0.67 per $100 of assessed value, which includes the Brunswick County tax and the town’s municipal tax.
- HOA Fees: In addition to property taxes, homeowners in St. James also pay homeowners’ association (HOA) fees, which cover the maintenance of the community’s golf courses, marina, beach club, and other resort-style amenities. HOA fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the specific neighborhood and amenities.
- Additional Considerations: The HOA provides extensive services, including security, landscaping, and access to the private marina and beach club.
Crime & Safety
St. James is a gated community with a strong focus on safety and security. The town has a low crime rate, thanks in part to its private security services and well-maintained infrastructure. The community’s close-knit environment also contributes to a sense of safety and trust among residents.