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Top 12 Reasons To Move to North Carolina in 2023
By Victor Rosario MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
North Carolina is an ideal destination for those who want to relocate to a place with a low cost of living, beautiful weather, excellent job market and stunning landscapes. From the beaches to the mountains, North Carolina has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 12 reasons to move to North Carolina in 2023, as well as recommending ways to move across the country to the Tar Heel State.
Table of Contents
- Main things to know before moving to North Carolina
- Top 12 reasons to move to North Carolina
- How to move to North Carolina?
- Moving to North Carolina FAQs
- How we chose the best reason to move to North Carolina
Main things to know before moving to North Carolina
When considering the pros and cons of living in North Carolina, there are a few things you need to know. First, North Carolina has a diverse climate, with mild winters in the east and colder winters in the west due to the Appalachian Mountains. Second, North Carolina has a low cost of living compared to the national average, which makes it a popular destination for retirees. Also, North Carolina has an excellent transportation system with highways, railroads and airports, making it easy to travel within the state and beyond. Finally, North Carolina has a thriving economy, with a growing job market in technology, healthcare and finance.
It’s essential to research the different regions in North Carolina before making a decision to move. The state has three main regions: the coastal plain, the Piedmont and the Appalachian Mountains. Each area has its own unique culture, landscape and lifestyle. For example, the coastal plain is known for its beaches, seafood and water sports, while the Appalachian Mountains offer scenic drives, hiking trails and skiing.
Top 12 reasons to move to North Carolina
Reason 1: Best beaches in the country
North Carolina has over 300 miles of coastline, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers. The Outer Banks, a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands off the coast, is known for its stunning beaches, lighthouses and wild horses. The beaches in North Carolina are not only beautiful but also affordable, making it easy to enjoy a day in the sun without breaking the bank. The state’s beaches offer a wide range of activities, including surfing, fishing, kayaking, bbq, biking and paddleboarding.
Wilmington, a coastal city in North Carolina, is also a popular destination for beachgoers. It has a charming downtown area with historic buildings, shops and restaurants. Wilmington is also home to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, making it a vibrant college town with plenty of activities for young adults.
Reason 2: Affordable cost of living
One of the most attractive features of North Carolina is its affordable cost of living. Compared to other states such as Florida, New York, Tennessee or Virginia, living expenses in North Carolina are relatively lower, especially in terms of housing costs. According to the website Best Places, the overall cost of living index in North Carolina is 94.1, which is lower than the national average of 100. Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living index, with North Carolina’s housing market index at 78.6, well below the national average of 100. Additionally, whether it’s Fayetteville, Cary Raleigh-Durham or Winston-Salem, utilities and transportation costs are also lower than the national average.
North Carolina’s low cost of living allows residents to have more disposable income and enjoy a higher quality of life. It is also a great place for retirees on a fixed income, as they can stretch their retirement dollars further. Even in big cities like Raleigh and Charlotte, the cost of living is still affordable compared to other metropolitan areas.
Overall, North Carolina’s affordable cost of living is a huge draw for those looking to relocate, and is something to consider when factoring in your moving cost. Whether you are a retiree, a young professional or a family, North Carolina’s low cost of living and tax burden can help make your dreams a reality.
Reason 3: Strong and diverse economy
North Carolina boasts a strong and diverse economy, with major industries ranging from technology to finance to agriculture. The state is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies, including Bank of America, Lowe’s, Duke Energy and Honeywell International, among others. This diverse economy has helped the state weather economic downturns and remain a top destination for job seekers.
One of the key factors driving North Carolina’s strong economy is the Research Triangle, a region encompassing Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. This area is home to numerous high-tech companies, research institutions and universities, including Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Research Triangle Park is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, drawing in talent and investment from all over the world.
Outside of the Research Triangle, other major cities in North Carolina also offer a diverse range of job opportunities. Charlotte, for example, is a major banking and finance center, with Bank of America and Wells Fargo both headquartered there. Asheville, on the other hand, is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, as well as its tourism industry.
North Carolina’s strong economy is a major draw for job seekers and entrepreneurs alike. With diverse industries and a range of job opportunities, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to relocate to the Tar Heel State.
Reason 4: Growing job market
In addition to its strong and diverse economy, North Carolina also boasts a growing job market. The state’s unemployment rate is consistently below the national average, and many industries are seeing strong job growth.
One industry that is particularly booming in North Carolina is healthcare. The state is home to a number of major healthcare systems, including Duke University Health System, UNC Health Care, and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. These systems, along with a number of other hospitals and clinics throughout the state, are creating new job opportunities for healthcare professionals at all levels.
Technology is another industry that is experiencing significant growth in North Carolina. The Research Triangle, in particular, is a hub for tech companies, with major players like IBM, Cisco and SAS calling the area home. As technology continues to evolve and play an increasingly important role in our lives, the demand for skilled tech workers is only going to increase.
Beyond healthcare and technology, North Carolina also offers job opportunities in fields like education, manufacturing and hospitality. The state is home to a number of excellent universities, including Duke and UNC, which provide jobs for professors, researchers and administrators. Manufacturing, while not as dominant as it once was in North Carolina, still employs a significant number of people, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries. And with a growing tourism industry, there are also plenty of jobs available in hospitality, from hotel management to restaurant work.
Overall, North Carolina’s growing job market is a major draw for those looking to relocate. With a range of industries experiencing strong job growth, there are opportunities for workers at all levels and in all fields.
Reason 5: Residents pay less in taxes
One of the main benefits of living in North Carolina is the lower tax burden that residents enjoy. The state has a flat income tax rate of 5.25%, which is lower than the national average. Additionally, the state sales tax rate is only 4.75%, which is also lower than many other states in the country. North Carolina also has a property tax rate that is below the national average, which can be especially beneficial for homeowners.
Reason 6: Great health care programs
North Carolina is home to some of the best healthcare facilities and programs in the country. The state is known for its excellent hospitals and medical centers, such as the Duke University Medical Center and the UNC Health Care system. In addition, North Carolina is home to several renowned research institutions, including the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and the Research Triangle Park, which is one of the largest research parks in the world.
Reason 7: Most prestigious educational system
North Carolina is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the country, including Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. These institutions offer world-class education and research opportunities across a wide range of fields, from engineering and technology to business and medicine. In addition, North Carolina has a strong public education system, with highly ranked elementary, middle and high schools throughout the state.
Reason 8: Safety and Crime Rate
North Carolina is a relatively safe state to live in, with a lower crime rate than many other states in the country. According to the FBI, the state has a lower violent crime rate than the national average, making it a great place to raise a family or start a business.
Reason 9: Is a good option for retirees
North Carolina is a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its mild climate, low cost of living and abundance of retirement communities and amenities. The state is home to several cities and towns that are popular with retirees, including Asheville, Wilmington and Chapel Hill. In addition, North Carolina offers several tax benefits for retirees, including a $35,000 deduction for Social Security income and other retirement benefits.
Reason 10: Excellent weather
North Carolina offers a pleasant climate that is ideal for those who enjoy four distinct seasons. The state has a humid subtropical climate in the coastal and eastern regions, while the western region has a humid continental climate. North Carolina enjoys plenty of sunshine and moderate temperatures throughout the year, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-50s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer.
Reason 11: Beautiful outdoor lifestyle
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes and state parks in the country, including the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains. The state is also home to several national parks, forests and waterfalls, including the Pisgah National Forest, the Uwharrie National Forest and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. North Carolina offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting and boating.
Reason 12: Growing art and culture scene
North Carolina has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy music, theater and visual arts. The state is home to several major museums, including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the Mint Museum and the Levine Museum of the New South. In addition, North Carolina has a vibrant music scene year round, with several major music festivals throughout the year, including the Merlefest, the Hopscotch Music Festival and the Carolina Blues Festival.
How to move to North Carolina?
If you’re considering relocating to North Carolina or buying your first home in the state, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some steps to help you make a smooth transition:
Research the state
Before moving to North Carolina, do your research on the cities, neighborhoods and communities to determine where you want to live. Each part of the state has its own unique culture and lifestyle, so be sure to find a place that matches your interests and preferences. Prepare your moving checklist to make sure you have everything ready before your big move.
Find a job
If you’re moving without a job, start looking before you arrive, and be sure to have a cushion of savings to cover your expenses until you find employment.
Set a budget
North Carolina has a lower cost of living than many other states, but you still need to set a budget for your expenses. Consider housing, transportation and groceries. Also, look for the cheapest way to move when deciding your budget.
Find a place to live
Once you’ve researched the different regions in North Carolina and have set a budget, start looking for a place to live. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, there are many options available across the state.
Register your vehicle
If you’re bringing a car with you, you’ll need to register it with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles within 30 days of establishing residency.
Obtain a North Carolina driver’s license
You’ll need a North Carolina driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency.
Change your address
Make sure you change your address with the post office, your bank and other important institutions.
Register to vote
Once you’re a resident of North Carolina, you’ll need to register to vote if you want to participate in local, state and national elections.
Find new doctors
If you have health concerns, you’ll need to find new doctors and specialists in North Carolina. Research the best hospitals and medical facilities in your area.
Get involved in the community
One of the best ways to acclimate to a new state is to get involved in the community. Attend local events, join clubs and volunteer for local organizations to meet new people and explore your new home.
Moving to North Carolina FAQs
How we chose the best reason to move to North Carolina
Choosing the best reason to move to North Carolina is not an easy task. After considering the top reasons, it’s important to evaluate them based on several factors, including accessibility, affordability and overall impact on a person’s quality of life.
Firstly, accessibility is a crucial factor when considering a move to a new state. Is the reason easily accessible to all parts of the state, or is it limited to certain areas? For example, North Carolina’s beautiful beaches are located along the coast, making them more accessible to those living in the eastern part of the state. On the other hand, the Appalachian Mountains offer stunning views and outdoor activities but may be less accessible to those living in the central or coastal regions.
Secondly, affordability is another important factor to consider. While North Carolina boasts a lower cost of living compared to the national average, some reasons may be more affordable than others. For example, residents pay less in taxes, which is an advantage for those who are budget-conscious. Similarly, the state’s healthcare programs and education system are top-rated, making them an attractive option for those who prioritize quality over cost.
Lastly, the overall impact on a person’s quality of life is a key factor to consider. While factors like job market and cost of living may be important, they may not necessarily make a person happy in the long run. For example, the state’s art and culture scene may not have a direct impact on a person’s finances, but it can contribute significantly to their overall quality of life and sense of belonging in a community.
Taking these factors into account, we’ve concluded that the best reason to move to North Carolina is its thriving economy. With a strong job market, affordable cost of living and diverse industries, North Carolina offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth. The state’s thriving economy has attracted major companies such as IBM, Cisco Systems and GlaxoSmithKline, among others. Additionally, North Carolina is home to the Research Triangle Park, a hub for research and development in the fields of biotechnology, information technology and more.
In conclusion, North Carolina offers a wealth of benefits for those considering a move. From its stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes to its thriving economy and top-rated education and healthcare systems, the state is an attractive option for new residents.
Make sure to check our list of the best moving companies in North Carolina to take care of your professional moving needs.
