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Best Places to Live in North Carolina in 2023
By noel MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
North Carolina is a state that has something for everyone. From the mountains in the west to the coast in the east, the state boasts a diverse landscape and a rich history. Whether you’re looking for an urban or rural lifestyle, North Carolina has plenty of options.
The five places showcased in this article have been carefully selected based on a methodology considering population, median household income, median home prices and unemployment rates. The places provide a well-rounded selection that caters to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you are a young professional looking for a vibrant city, a family seeking top-rated schools or a retiree searching for a peaceful community, there is something for you in North Carolina.
Here are the five best places to live in North Carolina in 2023:
Asheville
Asheville has a population of around 94,000 people. It’s located in the western part of North Carolina and is a popular destination for those who love the outdoors, as it is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, excellent restaurants and craft breweries. Ashville is also home to the historic Biltmore Estate, attracting thousands of visitors yearly.
Asheville has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many galleries, theaters and museums throughout the city. The River Arts District is a must-see destination for art lovers, featuring over 200 artists’ studios and galleries. Additionally, the city hosts many annual events, including the Asheville Food and Wine Festival, the Asheville Yoga Festival and the Moogfest electronic music festival. With its stunning natural beauty, excellent quality of life, and thriving arts and culture scene, Asheville is a top choice for those looking to relocate to North Carolina.
The median household income in Asheville is $58,193, and the median home price is $426,373. The unemployment rate is 2.5%, lower than the national average.
Charlotte
Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, is a hub of finance, transportation and business. With a population of 879,000, it’s a diverse economy with many job opportunities. It’s home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Bank of America and Duke Energy.
Charlotte also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries and theaters. The city is famous for its professional sports teams, including the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Hornets.
There are also plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, with nearby parks and lakes for fishing, boating and hiking. Charlotte is an excellent choice for those seeking a bustling city with ample job opportunities and a vibrant cultural scene.
The median household income in Charlotte is $68,367, and the median home price is $369,100. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, slightly lower than the national average.
Raleigh
Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and is located in the central part of the state. The city is known for its high-tech industry; many companies, such as IBM and Cisco, are in the area.
In addition to its strong economy and career opportunities, Raleigh is known for its outstanding universities, including North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. These institutions attract a diverse population of students and researchers, contributing to the city’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy.
The city also offers plenty of cultural attractions, including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the Contemporary Art Museum and the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, which features world-class theater, ballet and opera performances. Raleigh boasts numerous parks and greenways for outdoor activities, including the William B. Umstead State Park, which offers hiking, camping and fishing opportunities.
The median household income in Raleigh is $72,996 and the median home price is $411,625. The unemployment rate is 2.7%, lower than the national average.
Durham
Durham is just a few miles from Raleigh and home to Duke University and Duke University Hospital. The city has a rich history and is known for its revitalized downtown area, which boasts excellent restaurants and art galleries. Durham also has a thriving startup scene, with many companies focusing on healthcare and biotechnology.
Durham has a vibrant culture and thriving food scene. The city offers a diverse community with many local businesses, farmers’ markets and cultural festivals. Durham also has a rich history, including its role in the civil rights movement, which is celebrated at the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company building and the Hayti Heritage Center. Additionally, the city is home to the Durham Performing Arts Center, which hosts various performances throughout the year, including Broadway shows and popular concerts. With a population of around 300,000, Durham is a great place to call home.
The median household income in Durham is $66,623 and the median home price is $372,617. The unemployment rate is 2.6%, lower than the national average.
Wilmington
Wilmington is a coastal city located in the southeastern part of North Carolina. The city is known for its historic downtown area, which features cobblestone streets and a riverwalk along the Cape Fear River. Wilmington is also home to many beaches and other outdoor recreational spots.
Wilmington has several highly-ranked schools, including the University of North Carolina Wilmington, which offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields, and Cape Fear Community College, which provides technical and vocational education. Additionally, the city offers excellent healthcare services, with several highly-regarded hospitals and medical centers in the area. Wilmington also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries and theaters showcasing the city’s rich history and creativity. Whether you’re looking for a coastal retreat or a vibrant city with a small-town feel, Wilmington offers the best of both worlds.
The median household income in Wilmington is $54,066 and the median home price is $367,842 The unemployment rate is 2.9%, slightly higher than the national average.
Methodology
To determine the best places to live in North Carolina, we analyzed data from various sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Center for Education Statistics. We looked at population, median household income, median home price and the unemployment rate to determine which cities and towns offer the best quality of life and economic opportunities.
We also considered factors such as access to healthcare, public transportation, outdoor recreation opportunities and cultural amenities such as museums, theaters, and restaurants.
FAQs
The bottom line
North Carolina is a diverse and vibrant state with opportunities for residents to live, work and play. Whether you prefer the mountains or the city, North Carolina has something for everyone. From the thriving arts and culture scenes in Asheville and Durham to the bustling economies of Charlotte and Raleigh, there are plenty of great places to live.
With its robust job market, excellent schools and affordable cost of living, it’s no surprise that North Carolina continues to attract new residents from all over the country. By considering the factors outlined above and doing your own research, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect place to call home in the Tar Heel State.
