Things You Need to Know Before Moving to North Carolina

With breathtaking mountain views, stunning coastlines and amazing career opportunities, migrants from all over the U.S. are moving to North Carolina. We broke down some of the most popular questions to bring you one step closer to your dream state.

If you’re considering moving to North Carolina, we’ll ask you one simple question: why haven’t you already?

With great weather, a breathtaking climate, a thriving job market and some of the nicest neighbors around, North Carolina has become one of the top destinations for young professionals, growing families and retirees. As you consider all of your available options, we put together everything you need to know about moving to the Tar Heel State—beginning with the most important questions.

Is North Carolina a good place to live?

With a thriving business climate, low cost of living and beautiful landscapes across the state, living in North Carolina is a dream. With a population over 10 million, North Carolina is the tenth largest state in the U.S. and it continues to grow. It’s a popular state for transplants, especially millennials, and it offers all sorts of lifestyles for a variety of residents. North Carolina is split into three geographic regions. In the east are the coastal plains, which take up nearly half the state. The central area is the Piedmont region, which contains five of the state’s largest cities. In the west are the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smokey Mountains National Park , the most-visited national park in the United States.

In between these areas are miles of parks and beaches, allowing residents to enjoy North Carolina’s outdoor activities to the fullest. Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill make up the “Triangle” region, and they’re some of the most popular destinations to call home. North Carolina has recently emerged as a research and technology hub, which might not paint the clearest picture of life in this state—because what really gives North Carolina its charm is the small-town community and unique personality.

No matter which town you decide on, we can tell you one thing: you’re going to love moving to North Carolina.

What are the pros of moving to North Carolina?

Moving to a new area comes with unique opportunities and challenges. Here’s what you need to know about the positives and negatives of moving to North Carolina:

The Pros

Living in this state comes with endless positives. Here’s what you can look forward to if you’re moving to North Carolina :

The cost of living.

Between low rent, affordable homes and low taxes, the cost of living in North Carolina is significantly lower than most states.

The community

One of the best things about moving to North Carolina is its people. The state has become a melting pot of diverse people from all over the country and residents appreciate that friendly, community feel.

The outdoor activities.

While summers can be hot and humid, winters are extremely mild in North Carolina—a pleasant surprise for most residents moving in from out of state. Between Lake Norman, the US National Whitewater Center and the Great Smoky Mountains, residents will never run out of places to explore.

The economy.

It’s no secret that North Carolina is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Most of this is due to the impressive education system, technology scene and ample career opportunities.

Stretching nearly 500 miles long, moving to North Carolina is an adventurer’s dream. Whether you enjoy spending your free time exploring nature’s mountains and beaches or you prefer more of an urban lifestyle, North Carolina’s cities offer something for everyone.

Here are some of the best places to live in North Carolina:

Known as the largest city in North Carolina and one of the best places to live in the U.S., Charlotte has become a popular destination for migrants around the country.

Charlotte

Between its up-and-coming neighborhoods, vibrant downtown life and family-friendly communities, it’s no wonder that singles, young couples and families are moving to Charlotte at a fast rate. Located in southeast North Carolina, it’s also a short drive to Asheville and South Carolina—offering even more to do in this area.

Raleigh

As the state capital and second-largest city in North Carolina, Raleigh has tons to offer its residents. The city has an impressive technology hub, including its 7,000-acre Research Triangle Park (RTP), home to more than 200 companies and 50,000 employees. If you’re , you’ll love the laid back environment, endless outdoor activities and Southern hospitality. moving to Raleigh

Durham

About 30 minutes north of Raleigh is another great place to plant some roots in North Carolina:
Durham. Durham is part of the Research Triangle, and it is known as the City of Medicine for many reasons. It has one of the top 10 hospitals in the U.S. and a physician-to-population ratio almost 5 times the national average. Home to Duke University, Durham is one of the few popular sports towns in North Carolina. Residents love their Blue Devils!

Chapel Hill

Home to the University of North Carolina and its Carolina Tar Heels, Chapel Hill is a thriving college town not far from Raleigh and Durham. Durham’s economy is closely tied to technology, science and the arts, and it boasts a strong educational program. From locally owned ice cream shops to breathtaking views of Jordan Lake, Chapel Hill is all about living authentically.

Asheville

Calling all foodies: Asheville is THE place to be for food. But really—it’s officially dubbed the world’s only “Foodtopian Society,” where residents believe incredible food fuels everything. Residents can enjoy the culinary collaborators’ creativity, passion and local flavors that combine into a unique experience for all. Between delicious food, an eclectic music and arts scene, and outdoor adventures at nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Wilmington

Located in the Outer Banks region, Wilmington is the ultimate destination for beach lovers. In a short drive, residents can visit Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Unlike many of North Carolina’s top areas, Wilmington is far from suburbia. This historic port town is quaint, charming, and most of all, friendly. The area encourages locally owned shops, small businesses and even a dog-friendly downtown. For those who appreciate an eclectic, laid back lifestyle, Wilmington would make the perfect home.

Greensboro

Nicknamed the “Gate City” due to its short distance to all the major cities in the state, Greensboro is one of North Carolina’s top destinations. Although it’s home to North Carolina’s third-largest metro, the area feels like a small community—making it the perfect place to raise a family. Residents can enjoy plenty of attractions, including a zoo, waterpark, art galleries and golf courses.

What is the cost of living in North Carolina?

In one word: affordable! If you’re moving to North Carolina, expect low home prices, low rent and low taxes. If you’re relocating from a larger metro area, you can also expect more house for your money. At 23 percent below the national average, Charlotte has one of the most affordable housing markets in the country. The cost of living in Asheville, for example, is 44 percent lower than New York City—while the salaries are only 27 percent lower.

The median home price in Charlotte is around $240,000. If you’re looking to purchase a home, act now! Trulia experts predict an increase in home prices over the next year. Here’s what you can expect if you’re looking to rent in North Carolina: in Charlotte is around $240,000. If you’re looking to purchase a home, act now! Trulia experts predict an increase in home prices over the next year. Here’s what you can expect if you’re looking to rent in North Carolina:

Studio apartment:

$985 compared to a national average of $1,050

1-bedroom apartment:

$800 compared to a national average of $1,000

2-bedroom apartment:

$940 compared to a national average of $1,200

3-bedroom apartment:

$1,100 compared to a national average of $1,500

The cost of utilities in Charlotte is also 14 percent lower than the national average, contributing to North Carolina’s low cost of living and high quality of life.

Here are some of the top industries in North Carolina:

Finance

North Carolina is the in the U.S. and is primarily known for its top-ranked business climate. Companies with major operations in the area include AT&T, Microsoft, Wells Fargo and Bank of America.third- largest banking center

Biotechnology

Major biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies are flocking to North Carolina. Companies include Biogen, BD, Merck, Bayer and more. This is due to North Carolina housing the largest research park in the country (and well-known research universities).

Furniture

Believe it or not, North Carolina is the “Furniture Capital of the World.” The state is home to the largest furnishings trade show and the largest furniture manufacturer in the world. Companies include Ashley Furniture, Ethan Allen, Century and more.

Education

In addition to these growing sectors, schools in the area act as a major source of employment too. Schools who have an affiliation with RTP include Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. Wake Forest University, Davidson College and Appalachian State University are also some of the top-ranked universities in the state.

Is North Carolina a good place to retire?

If you’re moving to North Carolina and wondering what retirement life looks like, you’re in the right place. From majestic mountains to incredible vistas and exciting hikes, who wouldn’t want to spend their retirement in North Carolina?

The numbers back up the argument, too. North Carolina has an affordable housing market. The cost of living for retirees is 3.7% cheaper than the national average. Taxes are generally low, too, making North Carolina a great place to settle down in your later years.

Here are five of the most popular places to rere in North Carolina:

Brevard

Offering beautiful waterfalls, mountains and friendly locals, this town was No. 5 on Forbes’ list of Best Places to retire in the US.

Asheville

This breathtaking city located in the Southern area of the Appalachians is historical, hip and always has something going on.

New Bern

If you’re familiar with the movie “The Notebook”, you might fall in love with this quaint, charming town near the sea.

Outer Banks

If your idea of relaxation is by the sea, Outer Banks is for you. Retirees can soak up the sun or relax in a beach house.

Davidson

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Charlotte, Davidson is a lakeside town offering a small-town feel and Southern hospitality.

Will you spend your retirement years relaxing on a beach? In the mountains? Shopping downtown? Regardless of which you prefer, North Carolina’s geography, culture and diverse range of destinations have you covered.

The spectacular natural history of North Carolina is enough to attract any traveler. In addition, the state has museums, art galleries and theme parks. For outdoor enthusiasts, the state has much and more to offer.Hiking in the Linville Gorge and skiing in the High Country are both fun and a great way to appreciate the state’s beauty while beaches and the state’s coastline provide an opportunity to relax.If culture and history is your thing then rest assured that the museums and art galleries are among the best in the country. Here is our list of the best things to do in North Carolina:

  • The Biltmore Estate
  • USS North Carolina Morehead Planetarium Linville Gorge, North Carolina Chimney Rock State Park Grandfather Mountain
  • North Carolina Aquarium
  • North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro
  • Outer Banks, North Carolina
  • NASCAR Hall Of Fame
  • Contemporary Art Museum
  • Kings Barcade, Raleigh
  • William B. Umstead State Park
  • The James B. Hunt Jr. Library
  • Raleigh Greenway System
  • Pullen Park
  • Lincoln Theater
  • North Carolina Museum Of Natural Sciences Mordecai Historic Park
  • North Carolina State Capitol
  • J S Dorton Arena
  • JC Raulston Arboretum
  • North Carolina Museum Of History Marbles Kids Museum
  • Dead Broke Farm