Disney has officially spent eight figures to acquire a sizable piece of land in North Carolina. But before you get too excited about a new theme park, the company’s latest investment is for a different kind of expansion: a new Storyliving by Disney community.
In 2023, Disney announced plans to develop “Asteria,” the second Storyliving community, located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, just outside Raleigh. The name “Asteria” is a nod to both the native North Carolina aster flower and the Greek goddess Asteria, whose stardust tears were believed to have fallen to Earth and sprouted the first aster plant. Asteria follows the creation of “Cotino,” Disney’s first residential project in Rancho Mirage, California.
As reported by WRAL News, Disney has completed the first step in a nine-phase process to acquire 1,500 acres in Pittsboro. In March, Disney purchased 217 acres for a hefty $23.3 million. Once the full acquisition is completed, Storyliving by Disney plans to build a 4,000-home community in the area. Sales are slated to begin in 2027.
The project is being developed in collaboration with DMB/SWVP Raleigh, a subsidiary of Arizona-based DMB Development. Preliminary plans for the community have already been submitted to the town of Pittsboro, with full development plans to be made public in May.
Disney is designing Asteria as a place for lifelong learners, with Imagineers curating a space filled with public meeting areas, green spaces, and recreational areas. Asteria is envisioned as a neighborhood where residents can engage in Disney-themed activities, attend immersive storytelling dinners, and even participate in Disney art classes. Of course, Disney’s signature customer service will be available to residents, with cast members ensuring that everyone receives the same warm, welcoming experience that fans have come to expect from Disney parks.
Although Storyliving by Disney hasn’t yet revealed the prices for homes in Asteria, interested buyers can expect the homes to be on the pricey side. The company’s first community, Cotino, offers homes and condos ranging from the upper $2 million to the upper $4 million, so Asteria may not be much different.
For those looking to stay updated on Asteria, the Storyliving by Disney email list is now open for sign-ups.
Have you considered a Storyliving by Disney property? In the comments, share your thoughts on the brand with us!
