Best Places to Live in North Carolina

Though North Carolina, the 9th largest state in the country, has recently evolved into a destination for technology and research, what this state is most known for is it’s beautiful landscapes, low cost of living and small town ambiance. With 41 state parks, 19 national parks and 4 national forests, abundant outdoor activities include hiking, biking, fishing and simply relaxing within the natural beauty of streams, lakes and even, for the very adventurous, whitewater rafting.

Split into three geographic locations, the east coast reveals a string of barrier islands known as the Outer Banks. Central NC is known as the Piedmont Region. Here you’ll find the state’s largest cities as well as those boasting charm and history. To the west are the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most visited national park in the country) and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Rockies.

No matter where you choose to live in North Carolina, you will find exactly the lifestyle you desire!

THE “TRIANGLE” REGION includes 3 of the most popular NC destinations, Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill.

In 2021, Bankrate said this about Raleigh; “Raleigh is more than the best place to live in North Carolina; in 2021, we think it’s the best place to live in the entire country.” With its affordability, highly ranked schools, and hot job market, this state capital provides a desired lifestyle for young professionals, growing families and retirees. The Wake County Public School District makes up some of the state’s highest rated schools. There are also many higher education choices with the city including 10 colleges and universities, North Carolina State University being one of them. Whether you prefer the culture of museums, performing arts and concerts or the natural beauty of parks, trails, waterways and more, Raleigh provides them all. With a population of 488.334, the 2020 census ranks Raleigh as the 2nd largest city in NC and 40th largest in the country. Median home sales price in 2022 is $436,000.

The 20th century knew this city as the home of tobacco production, but it has now emerged as a 21st century center for medicine (home to Duke University), technology and innovation. The population is on an upswing with the 2020 census showing 283,506 residents making Durham the 4th most populous city in North Carolina and the 75th most populous in the United States. Culture here reaches all demographics with the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) hosting off broadway shows, bars and clubs providing live music, sports and exceptional food choices. Median home price for this Triangle city is $364,000.

Home to University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, this typical college town is young and vibrant during the school year and a quieter, more serene place to live in the summer. Considered a great urban/suburban mix offering lots of restaurants, coffee shops and parks, Chapel Hill is just a short drive to the larger cities of Raleigh and Durham and all their amenities. It also boasts the top ranked public school district in the entire state making it a great place to start out and the stay to raise a family. Though Chapel Hill has the lowest population (66,103) of the 3 triangle region cities the cost of living and housing is highest compared to the other two with the median home sales price at $534,500.

Chapel Hill Homes for Rent

OTHER TOP PLACES TO LIVE IN NORTH CAROLINA

The largest city in North Carolina, with a population of 857,425, Charlotte offers a plethora of shopping, restaurant, club and bar options to enjoy. The Charlotte metro area is home to over 40 universities and colleges yet includes a very diverse geographic of young professionals just starting out, growing families, working adults and retirees. Charlotte has multiple sports teams including the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, NBA Hornets and even a pro soccer team, the Charlotte FC. With a median home sales price ranging from $350,000 to $400,000, this big city has a small city price. Other costs of living here are also considered very reasonable which is why Charlotte is a top choice for people moving to North Carolina.

Home to some of the state’s most scenic views and access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a perfect choice for active adventurers but also offers numerous options for art and music lovers along with foodies and beer aficionados (as noted in Beer City USA). With a population just under 95,000 and an average home value of $475,000, Asheville provides a small town feel with big city amenities.

Known as a Colonial port city, Wilmington boasts a quaint downtown area along the Cape Fear River while also being home to UNC-Wilmington and Cape Fear Community College. Just a short drive away you can be enjoying Wrightsville Beach and infamous Figure 8 Island. Wilmington offers a variety of housing options from a charming starter home in a popular neighborhood to an historic district Colonial home and even for the beach comber in you a condo on the water. The most recent census shows a population of 127,128, median household income of $51,137. Affordability is a plus with the average home value at $349,124.

Frequently asked questions

Question: What is the population of North Carolina?

With a population of 10,439,388, the 2020 census places North Carolina as the 9th largest state in the US.

Question: What is North Carolina known for?

Providing east coast Outer Banks waterways and west coast Blue Ridge mountains plus affordability and a high quality of life, North Carolina is known for its scenic beauty and overall sense of community throughout the state.

Question: What is the median home price in North Carolina?

Though you can certainly find homes much higher and lower depending on the area of NC you’re considering, the average home price is $338,000.

Find more homes for sale in North Carolina

RALEIGH

DURHAM

CHAPEL HILL

CHARLOTTE

ASHEVILLE

WILMINGTON

Frequently asked questions

Question: What is the population of North Carolina?

Question: What is North Carolina known for?

Question: What is the median home price in North Carolina?