Southeastern North Carolina has benefited in recent years from the adventurous spirit of individuals and families who fall in love with the area and bring their special talents, energies and abilities to the coast. Settling in one of the many golf course communities, beaches or comfortable subdivisions, or opting for several acres in the country, these people often bring with them their own businesses, thereby providing new jobs, sometimes in new sectors, thus boosting the economy in ways not previously seen in the area. The easygoing lifestyle and pristine environment attract them; the friendly neighbors and thriving business environment keep them here.
These people and others have contributed to this area becoming one of the fastest growing regions of the state for the past several years. According to the 2000 US census, the county's 43.5 percent growth in population exceeded the state's overall 21.4 percent growth in the '90s. The economic boom has been both a blessing and a challenge. In response, significant infrastructure upgrades are underway with an eye toward expanded sewer and water facilities. Business development continues as the increasing population requires additional jobs and retail and professional services. Additionally, Brunswick County has had more than 70 plant announcements since 1990, creating 3500 new jobs and more than $220 million in new capital investment. The county's unemployment rate remains near 4.5 percent, slightly below North Carolina's unemployment rate of 5.1 percent.
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