Are you thinking about moving to North Carolina? The Tar Heel State is a great place to live with Southern charm, an easy-going lifestyle, and affordable living. Of course, moving to a new state can be overwhelming. This guide to living in North Carolina covers everything you want to know about your new state and what you can look forward to!
Table of Contents
Is North Carolina a Good Place to Live?
North Carolina is a fantastic place to live, offering diverse landscapes, from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy shores of the Outer Banks. It boasts a thriving economy with key industries like technology, healthcare, and finance, making it a hub for career opportunities. Residents enjoy a relatively low cost of living, Southern hospitality, rich cultural heritage, excellent universities, and a mild climate.
Whether you’re drawn to the bustling cities of Raleigh and Charlotte or the charming coastal towns, living in North Carolina offers a great quality of life for families and individuals alike.
What Is North Carolina Known for?
North Carolina is famous for its rich history, natural beauty, and culinary traditions, especially its iconic Eastern Style BBQ. This mouthwatering barbecue features tender, slow-cooked pork, often whole hog, seasoned with a distinctive vinegar-based sauce that adds a tangy, savory punch. Beyond the plate, North Carolina is known for its picturesque landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to its stunning Atlantic coastline.
The state is also a hub for innovation, boasting a growing tech scene and renowned universities. Whether you’re exploring historic Civil War sites, savoring local flavors, or enjoying outdoor adventures, North Carolina offers a vibrant mix of tradition and modern appeal.
Where Is North Carolina?
North Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States, offering a diverse mix of landscapes and geography. To the northeast, it borders Virginia, while its southern neighbor is South Carolina. On the western edge, the state meets Tennessee, and to the east, it enjoys a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
North Carolina is home to breathtaking mountain ranges like the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains, attracting millions of outdoor enthusiasts. Though not directly bordering Florida, North Carolina’s position along the Atlantic coastal corridor makes it a key part of the vibrant southeastern U.S. region.
Is North Carolina Considered the South?
Yes, North Carolina is considered part of the South. It is located in the southeastern United States and is one of the original Southern states with deep historical, cultural, and geographical ties to the region.
Transportation in North Carolina
The state is served by 22 interstates, including I-40, I-42, I-85, I-73, I-74, I-95, and I-587, as well as major U.S. and state highways and scenic byways. It has the second-largest state-maintained highway system in the country. NCDOT also maintains several major bicycle routes in the state like the Carolina Connection (U.S. Bicycle Route 1) and the 700-mile Mountains to the Sea (NC Bicycle Route 2).
ASCE rates the road infrastructure quality of North Carolina below average, but power outages and energy reliability are above average.
While living in North Carolina, you can take advantage of the Amtrak train service on the Carolinian, Piedmont, and Crescent routes linking key cities and public transportation options in major cities.
Public transportation is robust, with 98 public transportation systems serving over 70 million passengers. Two major regional systems are the Piedmont Authority for Regional Transit (PART) serving the Piedmont Triad area and GoTriangle bus service within the Research Triangle region. There are two light rail systems in major urban areas. You can learn more about Charlotte public transportation with our complete guide.
What Airports Are in North Carolina?
There are four major airports in North Carolina and five regional airports. North Carolina airports include:
- Charlotte/Douglas International Airport (CLT), the world’s 7th busiest airport
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) serving the Research Triangle
- Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO)
- Wilmington International Airport (ILM)
- Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
- Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY)
- Pitt-Greenville Airport (PGV)
- Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ)
- Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN)
How Many People Live in North Carolina?
The North Carolina population is 10.44 million according to the 2020 census, making it the ninth most populous state in the United States. The state gained about 900,000 people in the past decade. About one-quarter of people living in North Carolina are within the Charlotte metropolitan area, and one in five North Carolinians are in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area, also known as the Research Triangle.
The Piedmont Triad is home to 1.7 million people with three separate metropolitan areas: Greensboro-High Point (800,000), Winston-Salem (700,000), and Burlington (180,000). About 16% of people living in North Carolina are in the Piedmont Triad.
North Carolina Demographics
People living in North Carolina are known as North Carolinians. Here are some key facts about the state’s population:
- Median age: 39.4
- Sex ratio: 51% female to 49% male
- Median household income: $70,804
- Marital status: 51% married
- Homeownership rate: 66%
- Educational attainment: 37% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 9.2%
- Veteran population: 7.3%
The state’s racial and ethnic composition is 60.5% non-Hispanic white, 20.2% Black or African American, 10.7% Hispanic, 3.3% Asian, 1.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 0.4% other races, and 3.9% two or more races.
While mostly rural, the state has experienced rapid urbanization with growing diversity in major cities, mostly fueled by immigration from India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. North Carolina has the East Coast’s largest population of American Indians, with eight tribal nations recognized by the state.
The most common ancestries are:
- English (12.6%)
- German (9.2%)
- Irish (8.3%)
- American (7.9%)
- Italian (3.1%)
- Scottish (2.2%)
- Scotch-Irish (1.7%)
- Polish (1.4%)
- Sub-Saharan African (1.4%)
- French (1.3%)
What Famous People Are From North Carolina?
There are many famous people born in North Carolina, including:
- Actors Andy Griffith, Evan Rachel Wood, Zach Galifianakis, Ava Gardner, Michael C. Hall, Ken Jeong, Julianne Moore, and Frankie Muniz
- Musicians Nina Simone, Clay Aiken, Randy Travis, Tori Amos, Chuck Brown, Eric Church, George Clinton, and Fred Durst
- Sports figures Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Dale Earnhardt Sr., Sugar Ray Leonard, and Joe Lewis
- Inventors and founders: Herman Lay, inventor of Lay’s potato chips; Caleb Bradham, inventor of Pepsi-Cola; Richard Jordan Gatling, inventor of the Gatling gun; R. J. Reynolds, founder of R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
- Other personalities and famous people: Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast) and President James K. Polk
What Are the Largest Cities in North Carolina?
There are 551 municipalities in North Carolina in 100 counties. Municipalities include cities, towns, and villages, which have no separate legal distinction in the state. There are six major cities in North Carolina with at least 200,000 residents and 18 North Carolina cities with at least 55,000 people.
- Charlotte: 874,579
- Raleigh: 467,665
- Greensboro: 299,035
- Durham: 283,506
- Winston-Salem: 249,545
- Fayetteville: 208,501
- Cary: 174,721
- Wilmington: 115,451
- High Point: 114,059
- Concord: 105,240
- Asheville: 94,589
- Greenville: 87,521
- Gastonia: 80,411
- Jacksonville: 72,723
- Chapel Hill: 61,960
- Huntersville: 61,376
- Apex: 58,780
- Burlington: 57,303
Cities in North Carolina Map
What Are the Best Places to Live in North Carolina?
Living in North Carolina offers something for everyone, from charming small towns to bustling cities and scenic coastal regions. Here are some of the top picks:
- Raleigh: A thriving major city with a strong job market, excellent schools, and family-friendly neighborhoods.
- Charlotte: One of the state’s largest and most urban areas, offering a mix of cultural attractions and career opportunities.
- Asheville: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for art and nature lovers
- Outer Banks: Ideal for those drawn to coastal living, with picturesque beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Durham: A growing hub for healthcare and tech, blending history with modern amenities.
- Wilmington: A beautiful port city combining coastal charm with the amenities of larger cities.
- Cary: Known for its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and suburban appeal.
- Chapel Hill: A college town with a rich culture and access to world-class education.
What Is the Cost of Living in North Carolina?
The North Carolina cost of living index is 97.6 (C2ER, 2024 3rd quarter). That means the average cost of living in North Carolina is 2.4% more affordable than the U.S. average. It’s one of the most affordable states and ranks #27.
| North Carolina Cost of Living Index | 97.6 |
| Grocery Index | 98.9 |
| Housing Index | 95.6 |
| Utilities Index | 95.4 |
| Transportation Index | 91.7 |
| Health Index | 104.3 |
What is the cost of living in North Carolina per month? According to Doxo, the average household in North Carolina pays $1,975 in household bills per month, 7% below the national average.
- Average monthly mortgage: $1,353 (national: $1,402)
- Average rent: $1,113 (national: $1,300)
- Average auto loan: $467 (national: $496)
- Average monthly car insurance: $189 (national: $209)
- Average North Carolina utility bill: $291 (national: $362)
- Average cable and internet bill: $113 (national: $122)
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in North Carolina?
Looking for the cheapest place to live in NC? Here are our top picks for the cheapest places to live in North Carolina:
- Eden: Located where the Dan and Smith Rivers meet with a cost of living 30% below the national average.
- Thomasville: Known as the “Chair City” for its furniture heritage, Thomasville has a median home price of $153,600.
- Asheboro: Home to the North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro provides affordable living with a home price-to-income ratio of 3.16 and average property taxes around $1,052.
- Lexington: Famous for its barbecue, Lexington has a cost of living below the state average, with median home values among the lowest in North Carolina.
- Lenoir: Situated in the Blue Ridge foothills, Lenoir offers a low cost of living with median home prices at $187,671 and median rent of $656. It’s the cheapest place to live in the NC mountains.
- Hickory: Highlighted as a top budget-friendly retirement location, Hickory offers a median housing expense of $960 per month, significantly lower than the regional average. It’s one of the best safe affordable places to live in North Carolina for seniors.
North Carolina vs South Carolina Cost of Living
The cost of living in North Carolina is slightly higher than the South Carolina cost of living.
|
NC vs SC Cost of Living |
||
| North Carolina | South Carolina | |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.6 | 95.2 |
| Average Rent | $1,524 | $1,594 |
| Median Home Price | $396,678 | $365,000 |
| Average Monthly Utilities | $291 | $323 |
North Carolina Housing Market
The North Carolina real estate market is competitive yet affordable compared to the national average. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), three North Carolina cities are among the top 20 hottest housing markets for 2025:
- Greensboro (#8) – With a median list price of $324,000 in November 2024, home sales in the city are projected to increase 17% in 2025. It’s a popular city for families.
- Charlotte (#12) – With a median list price of $425,000 in November 2024, home sales are projected to increase 15.7% in 2025. It’s one of the country’s fastest-growing real estate markets thanks to job opportunities, affordability, and a location close to lakes, mountains, and the ocean.
- Durham (#18) – With a median list price of $475,000 in November 2024, home sales are projected to increase 14% in 2025. The family-friendly city is known for its college sports and outdoor recreation.
What Is the Average Rent in North Carolina?
According to Rentcafe, the average apartment rent in North Carolina is $1,524, lower than the national average of $1,748. While living in North Carolina, you’ll enjoy affordable rent, but average prices vary by city.
Chapel Hill is one of the most expensive cities in NC for renters, with an average rent of $1,909. Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham are close to average, ranging from $1,535 to $1,654. Winston-Salem, Greenville, and Gastonia are affordable cities with average rent under $1,350 per month.
|
Average Rent in North Carolina (Major Cities) |
|
| Chapel Hill | $1,909 |
| Asheville | $1,724 |
| Huntersville | $1,694 |
| Charlotte | $1,654 |
| Cary | $1,651 |
| Wilmington | $1,625 |
| Raleigh | $1,575 |
| Durham | $1,534 |
| Concord | $1,521 |
| Greenville | $1,340 |
| Gastonia | $1,335 |
| Greensboro | $1,302 |
| Fayetteville | $1,260 |
| Winston-Salem | $1,255 |
| High Point | $1,246 |
| Jacksonville | $1,207 |
What Is the Average Home Price in North Carolina?
Affordable housing is one of the benefits of living in North Carolina. If you are planning to buy a house in North Carolina, you can expect a median home price of $396,678 with an average price per square foot of $196, according to Redfin. By comparison, the national median home price is $434,720.
|
Median Home Prices in North Carolina (Major Cities) |
||
| City | Median List Price | Price Per Square Foot |
| Apex | $625,000 | $247 |
| Cary | $593,000 | $254 |
| Asheville | $556,500 | $336 |
| Huntersville | $550,000 | $213 |
| Chapel Hill | $495,000 | $275 |
| Raleigh | $484,500 | $240 |
| Wilmington | $439,000 | $258 |
| Charlotte | $425,000 | $239 |
| Durham | $425,000 | $233 |
| North Carolina | $396,500 | $196 |
| Concord | $380,000 | $196 |
| Greensboro | $290,000 | $172 |
| Winston-Salem | $285,000 | $164 |
| Gastonia | $285,000 | $171 |
| High Point | $270,000 | $160 |
| Fayetteville | $257,000 | $146 |
| Greenville | $230,500 | $152 |
| Jacksonville | $229,000 | $154 |
What Is the Weather Like in North Carolina?
North Carolina weather year-round is influenced by its diverse geography, ranging from coastal areas to mountainous regions. The North Carolina climate is classified as humid subtropical (Cfa), with a few highland areas falling into the oceanic zone (Cfb). Living in North Carolina means experiencing mild winters and hot, humid summers.
The average temperature in North Carolina is around 59°F annually, with summer highs averaging 85–90°F and winter lows typically ranging from 30–40°F. Snow is rare in the eastern and coastal regions but more common in the mountains.
However, the state can have unpredictable weather. Natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, are one of the biggest risks you’ll face while living in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS) manages the Know Your Zone tiered evacuation program. There are 21 counties in the coastal areas in a hurricane zone. If evacuations are necessary, they are ordered using these defined zones.
Things to Do in North Carolina
Living in North Carolina is a dream come true if you love nature and outdoor recreation. The state is known for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous mountain scenery, and outdoor activities like hiking. Here are just some of the best things to do in NC and the top attractions in North Carolina.
Top Attractions in North Carolina
- Biltmore Estate. America’s largest private home in Asheville, featuring stunning architecture, gardens, and tours.
- Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic highway connects the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks.
- Outer Banks. A series of barrier islands with pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and the site of the Wright brothers’ first flight.
- Charlotte Motor Speedway. A must-see for NASCAR fans, hosting thrilling races and events throughout the year.
- North Carolina Zoo. Located in Asheboro, this massive zoo showcases animals in expansive, naturalistic habitats.
- Battleship North Carolina. A World War II battleship docked in Wilmington, now a museum offering a look into naval history.
- Grandfather Mountain. Home to a mile-high swinging bridge, wildlife habitats, and hiking trails with panoramic views.
- Beech Mountain. A top ski destination during the winter and a hub for outdoor activities year-round.
- NASCAR Hall of Fame. A Charlotte attraction dedicated to the history and legends of NASCAR racing.
- North Carolina Arboretum. A beautiful Asheville destination featuring gardens, hiking trails, and educational exhibits.
- Lake Norman. The largest man-made lake in the state, offering boating, fishing, and watersports near Charlotte.
- Carowinds & Carolina Harbor Waterpark. One of the best things to do in Charlotte for families, this sprawling theme park features roller coasters, thrill rides, and a large seasonal waterpark.
Best Parks in North Carolina
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site offering hiking, waterfalls, and scenic views in the western part of the state.
- Chimney Rock State Park. A natural wonder with hiking trails, stunning views, and the iconic Chimney Rock formation.
- Linville Gorge and Falls. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this area is a hotspot for hiking, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
- Pisgah National Forest. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering camping, hiking, and waterfalls like Sliding Rock.
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Located in the Outer Banks, this protected stretch of coastline features historic lighthouses and diverse wildlife.
Best Museums in North Carolina
- North Carolina Museum of Art. A Raleigh institution and one of the best North Carolina museums featuring art from around the world, along with outdoor exhibits and walking trails.
- Museum of Life and Science. Located in Durham, this hands-on science museum is great for families and features a butterfly house and outdoor exhibits.
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Explore a huge fossil collection and exhibits on the state’s natural history.
What Beaches Are in North Carolina?
North Carolina boasts a stunning coastline with numerous beaches for water sports, sunbathing, and fishing. Here are the best beaches in North Carolina:
- Outer Banks (OBX): A string of barrier islands with pristine beaches, including Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Corolla, known for their natural beauty and historical significance. It’s home to the best beaches in North Carolina for families.
- Kure Beach: A quaint seaside town featuring a fishing pier, aquarium, and family-friendly activities.
- Hatteras Island: Home to Cape Hatteras National Seashore, this beach is ideal for fishing, kiteboarding, and exploring iconic lighthouses.
- Emerald Isle: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Wrightsville Beach: Near Wilmington, this vibrant beach is popular for surfing, paddleboarding, and family outings.
- Carolina Beach: A lively destination offering a classic boardwalk, fishing, and the nearby Carolina Beach State Park.
- Sunset Beach: A serene location known for its wide, sandy shoreline and proximity to the unique Kindred Spirit Mailbox.
- Topsail Island: A peaceful retreat with soft sands, sea turtle conservation efforts, and beautiful sunsets.
How Many National Parks Are in North Carolina?
There are 14 national parks in North Carolina. However, only the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a traditional park; the rest are national seashores, memorials, heritage sites, and other areas managed by the National Park Service (NPS).
National Park Service areas in NC include:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Appalachian Trail
- Blue Ridge Parkway (National Parkway)
- Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore
- Cape Lookout National Seashore
- Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
- Moores Creek National Battlefield
- Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (OVHT)
- Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
- Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor
- Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
- Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
- Wright Brothers National Memorial
Map of North Carolina Attractions
North Carolina Sports Teams
North Carolina sports are as vibrant and diverse as the state itself, offering fans a variety of professional teams to cheer for across multiple leagues. Professional sports teams in North Carolina include:
- Carolina Panthers (NFL): Based in Charlotte, the Panthers represent North Carolina with home games at Bank of America Stadium.
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA): Owned by Michael Jordan, the Hornets bring exciting basketball action to Charlotte’s Spectrum Center.
- Carolina Hurricanes (NHL): This Stanley Cup-winning hockey team calls Raleigh’s PNC Arena home.
- Charlotte FC (MLS): The state’s newest addition to professional sports teams in North Carolina, Charlotte FC began play in the 2022 season at Bank of America Stadium.
- Minor league baseball (MiLB) teams, including the Durham Bulls, Greensboro Grasshoppers, and Asheville Tourists
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Is North Carolina Safe?
Living in North Carolina is generally safe, with an overall crime rate that is only a bit higher than the U.S. average. The crime rate in North Carolina is 2,909 per 100k compared to the national crime rate of 2,346 per 100k. However, crime rates vary significantly by city and neighborhood, and the state has seen an increase in violent crime in major cities. The crime rate in Charlotte, for example, is 4,121 total crimes per 100k, with 746 violent crimes and 11.3 homicides per 100,000 people.
According to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, crime increased 2.3% across the state from 2022 to 2023, and violent crime decreased 0.1%. However, the North Carolina homicide rate was up 73% from 2013. Major cities also saw double-digit increases in violent crime, including Charlotte (13%), Raleigh (13%), Wilmington (21%), Cary (15%), and Greenville (14%).
A survey in 2023 also found violent crime was down nationwide but increasing in some of the largest cities in North Carolina. In Charlotte, homicides were up 36% from the first half of 2023 (45) to the first half of 2024 (61). Aggravated assault was up 8.5%, and robbery was up 6%.
What Is the Crime Rate in North Carolina?
The North Carolina crime rate is 2,909 crimes per 100,000 people. The state average crime rate is slightly higher than the national average.
- Overall crime rate in North Carolina: 2,909 per 100k (national: 2,346)
- Property crime rate: 2,469 per 100k (national: 1,958)
- Violent crime rate: 440 per 100k (national: 388)
- Homicide rate: 6.8 per 100k (national: 6.5)
What Are the Safest Cities in North Carolina?
There are many safe places to live in NC, where crime is well below the national average. If you’re moving to North Carolina, here are the safest cities with more than 10,000 people.
|
Safest Cities in North Carolina |
|||
| Population | Total Crime Per 100k | Violent Crime Per 100k | |
| Pinehurst | 16,000 | 407 | 33 |
| Davidson | 13,000 | 500 | 33 |
| Elon | 12,000 | 712 | 88 |
| Waxhaw | 16,000 | 818 | 84 |
| Fuquay-Varina | 29,000 | 920 | 69 |
| Stallings | 16,000 | 1,038 | 95 |
| Mint Hill | 27,000 | 1,055 | 86 |
| Holly Springs | 36,000 | 1,070 | 66 |
| Concord | 94,000 | 1,090 | 106 |
| Cornelius | 30,000 | 1,139 | 132 |
| Wake Forest | 44,000 | 1,158 | 115 |
| Cary | 169,000 | 1,185 | 80 |
| Apex | 55,000 | 1,198 | 55 |
What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in North Carolina?
Here are the most dangerous places to live in North Carolina. Only cities with at least 10,000 people are included.
|
Most Dangerous Cities in North Carolina |
||
| Population | Violent Crime Per 100k | |
| Lumberton | 21,000 | 2,400 |
| Henderson | 15,000 | 1,770 |
| Laurinburg | 15,000 | 1,559 |
| Winston-Salem | 246,000 | 1,176 |
| Goldsboro | 35,000 | 1,127 |
| Reidsville | 14,000 | 988 |
| Fayetteville | 211,000 | 978 |
| Asheville | 92,000 | 938 |
| Shelby | 20,000 | 905 |
| Salisbury | 34,000 | 885 |
What Is the Murder Rate in North Carolina?
The NC homicide rate is 6.8 homicides per 100,000 compared to the national average of 6.5 homicides per 100,000.
North Carolina Economy
North Carolina’s economy is a dynamic powerhouse, boasting a diverse range of industries and a strong GDP of approximately $683 billion as of 2023. North Carolina major industries include finance, biotechnology, technology, manufacturing, and agriculture, making the state a leader in innovation and business growth. Cities like Charlotte, a major banking hub, and the Research Triangle, known for its tech and research advancements, drive economic success.
With great job opportunities across these thriving industries, it’s no surprise that many people are moving to North Carolina for career growth and a high quality of life. Whether you’re in healthcare, education, or tech, North Carolina offers a robust economy with room for advancement.
What Are the Biggest Companies in North Carolina?
There are 13 Fortune 500 companies in North Carolina, and nine in the Charlotte area alone, including Bank of America (#32), Lowe’s (#39), Nucor (#102), Honeywell (#115), and Duke Energy (#141). The Charlotte area is home to 18 Fortune 500/1000 companies.
According to the NC Department of Commerce, below are the largest employers in North Carolina.
|
Major North Carolina Employers |
|
|
Healthcare and Social Assistance |
|
| Duke University | Charlotte Mecklenburg Hospital Authority |
| Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center (WFUBMC) | Veterans Administration Winston-Salem Regional Office (WSRO) |
| UNC Health Rex | UNC Health Care System |
| Pitt County Memorial Hospital | WakeMed Health & Hospitals |
| Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital | Cumberland County Hospital Systems |
|
Public Administration |
|
| Department of Defense | NC Department of Adult Corrections |
| NC Department of Transportation | City of Charlotte |
|
Education |
|
| Wake County Public Schools | UNC Chapel Hill |
| Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education | Guilford County Board of Education |
| Cumberland County Board of Education | |
|
Finance and Insurance |
|
| Wells Fargo Bank | Bank of America |
| Truist Bank | Fidelity Workplace Investing |
| State Employee Credit Union | |
|
Retail |
|
| Wal-Mart | Food Lion |
| Lowe’s | Harris Teeter |
| Ingles Markets | |
|
Transportation and Warehousing |
|
| Amazon | USPS |
| American Airlines | UPS |
| FedEx | |
What Is the Average Income in North Carolina?
The median household income in North Carolina is $65,412, about 88% of the U.S. median of $74,606. According to the BLS, the average hourly wage in NC is $28.71, with a median hourly wage of $21.85. The average annual wage is $59,730. Earnings vary by region though. Here are the average hourly wages for the metro area.
- Asheville: $25.81/hour ($53,670/year)
- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia: $30.98 ($64,440/year)
- Durham-Chapel Hill: $36.34/hour ($75,590/year)
- Greensboro-High Point: $26/21/hour ($54,520/year)
- Raleigh: $31.84/hour ($66,230/year)
- Winston-Salem: $27.33/hour ($56,850/year)
Education in North Carolina
Diverse public school learning environments serve families living in North Carolina with traditional, magnet, and charter schools as well as private school options. The state even offers innovative programs like the North Carolina Virtual Public School.
After moving to North Carolina, you can also benefit from a robust higher education system with some of the country’s top-rated public and private universities.
Where Does North Carolina Rank in Education?
The North Carolina education ranking is #19 overall, according to U.S. News, with a higher education ranking of #14 and a pre-K-12 ranking of #26.
What Are the Best School Districts in North Carolina?
The state has several high-ranking school districts and some of the best high schools in the U.S. The best school districts in North Carolina include:
- Guilford County Schools (Greensboro): Home to the 2 best high schools in NC, the top middle school, and the top elementary school. The Early College at Guilford is ranked the #1 high school in North Carolina and #16 in the country.
- Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (Chapel Hill): 91% graduation rate with 64% math proficiency and 67% reading proficiency
- Union County Public Schools (Monroe): This district boasts 2 of the top 10 elementary schools in the state
- Wake County Public School System (Raleigh): The largest district in the state with 4 of the top 10 elementary schools in NC
- Onslow County Schools (Jacksonville): Onslow Early College is ranked the #3 high school in NC
- Beaufort County Schools (Washington): National Blue Ribbon-winning high school ranked among the best in the state
What Are the Best Colleges in North Carolina?
North Carolina is ranked #14 for higher education, with many renowned colleges and universities. The best colleges in North Carolina include:
- Duke University: Private research university in Durham and one of the best universities in North Carolina, ranked #6 nationally
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill): The nation’s oldest public university
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte: Public research university with 24 doctoral and 66 master’s programs in nine colleges
- Wake Forest University: Private institution in Winston-Salem
- Elon University: Private university in Elon and one of the nation’s top teaching universities
- East Carolina University: 75 master’s programs and 100+ undergrad degrees
- Winston-Salem State University (WSSU): Part of the UNC system
- North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NC A&T): Public historically black research university
- North Carolina State University (NC State): Largest university in the Carolinas
- Western Carolina University: Ranked among the top 5 nationally for undergraduate research
How Many Universities Are in North Carolina?
There are 177 universities and colleges in North Carolina, including 84 four-year institutions, 69 community colleges, and 24 trade or vocational schools. The public University of North Carolina (UNC) System comprises 16 public universities and the NC School of Science and Mathematics.
Fun Facts About North Carolina
Check out these fun facts before moving to North Carolina!
- The Wright brothers made their historic first powered flight in Kitty Hawk, NC in 1903.
- The Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt, is the country’s largest private residence at more than 175,000 square feet.
- Pepsi-Cola was invented in 1893 in New Bern, NC by pharmacist Caleb Bradham.
- The North Carolina nickname is “Tar Heel State,” a name linked to its history of tar, pitch, and turpentine production.
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, established in 1789, is the first public university in the U.S.
- North Carolina is considered the birthplace of NASCAR and home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte.
- High Point Market is the world’s largest furniture market.
- At 208 feet tall, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States.
- The first documented gold discovery in the U.S. was in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, in 1799.
- Roanoke Island was the site of the “Lost Colony,” a group of settlers who vanished without explanation in the late 16th century.
- The shag dance, a swing-style dance popular in beach towns, is the official state dance.
Pros and Cons of Living in North Carolina
Benefits of moving to North Carolina:
- Mild climate. The state enjoys four distinct seasons, with generally mild winters and warm summers.
- Affordable cost of living. Most areas have a low cost of living and affordable housing.
- Growing economy. There are ample job opportunities in many industries.
- Outdoor recreation. Endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, fishing, and beach-going.
- Strong sports culture. Home to the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, Carolina Hurricanes, and NCAA powerhouses like Duke and UNC.
Downsides of living in North Carolina:
- Natural disasters. Coastal areas are prone to hurricanes, flooding, and severe storms.
- Traffic issues. Growing metro areas like Raleigh and Charlotte can experience heavy congestion.
- Mixed infrastructure quality. The Research Triangle has the best infrastructure, but many areas are struggling with poor road conditions.
Moving to North Carolina? Get Started With a Free Moving Quote
Make a Move is here to deliver a seamless and stress-free moving experience. Give us a call today at (704) 378-8588 to get started with your free, personalized moving estimate.
