8 Reasons to Move to North Carolina

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Written By Charlotte Miller

North Carolina, the Tar Heel State, is an attractive place to live and work. It is why thousands of people are moving to NC from different states. Maryland and California are two of the states that have seen significant influxes of transplants in recent years. New York is another state with a high migration rate to North Carolina.

North Carolina is a state that ticks many boxes and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a hustler looking to launch a business, an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure, or simply someone looking for a change of scenery, North Carolina will be an excellent home. Here are a few reasons why.

1. Find Help When Needed:

North Carolina is easy to settle in. The state has an extensive network of resources to help you with transitioning. From finding a job or new school for your child to discovering the best neighborhood for your lifestyle, it’ll all come together quickly and easily.

Even if you need help with bigger things like housing assistance or health care, North Carolina has plenty of aid available.

For instance, the funding programs in Durham and Wake counties offer many services like free legal help, job training, and more. Similarly, suppose you’re looking for a place to store your furniture in Aberdeen while you move into your new home. In that case, the Aberdeen storage units can provide you with the space you need.

Plus, the friendly locals are always willing to lend a helping hand to newcomers. You can get reviews and recommendations about anything from restaurants to real estate.

2. Cost of Living:

North Carolina has a lower cost of living than many other states, making it an attractive option for people on a budget. The cost of housing and utilities is significantly lower than the national average, making it easier to stretch your paycheck and get more for your money. The average housing cost here is $174,380, which is significantly lower than Raleigh’s $397,000.

Housing is one area where North Carolina’s living cost stands out. Real estate in the state varies from rural and small-town living to metropolitan life in larger cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Winston-Salem, and Asheville.

Plus, the architectural styles are stunning. You’ll find everything from cozy beach cottages to grand historic Victorians.

3. The Diverse Landscape:

What’s better than having a variety of terrains to explore? North Carolina has more than 500 miles of coastline and is home to many majestic mountain ranges. The landscape here offers plenty of opportunities for adventure.

You can hike the Blue Ridge Mountains, take a leisurely drive through the Outer Banks, enjoy world-class skiing facilities in the Appalachians, or take a dip in one of the many lakes. North Carolina has it all!

Plus, North Carolina is known for its excellent climate, which means you can enjoy plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures all year round. The best time to move to the state is mid-March through late October. It is during these months when the temperature is the most pleasant.

4. Quality Education:

North Carolina is home to many great universities and schools. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Wake Forest are some of the state’s most well-known higher education institutions.

What’s more is that you can get a degree in your desired field without breaking the bank, as tuition fees in North Carolina are generally lower than in other states. You can find everything from bartending classes to medical degrees in North Carolina.

Aside from college, there are many great K-12 schools in North Carolina. The public school system is well-funded and provides excellent learning environments for students of all ages.

5. A Promising Job Market:

Job opportunities are plentiful in North Carolina, and the median household income is higher than the national average. The state has several growing tech companies and a robust economy. It is an ideal place to start a business or find your dream job.

Plus, North Carolina offers several incentives for businesses, including generous tax credits and grants. It makes the state attractive for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to make a name for themselves.

Other industries that offer excellent opportunities include healthcare, finance, retail, and hospitality.

6. The Taxes are Low:

The tax rate in North Carolina is a flat 5.25% for all income levels. It is one of the lowest in the country. This low rate ensures you can keep more money and help make living costs more affordable. Compared to South Carolina, the tax rate in NC is 1.6% lower.

North Carolina’s sales tax is lower than many states, and the state also doesn’t tax Social Security benefits for retirees. The property tax rate in NC (0.77%) is lower than the national average (1.07%), and medicines, groceries, and medical equipment are exempt from state sales tax. 

In general, you’ll find that the overall taxes required by living in North Carolina are lower here than in other places – making it easier to save money. You can invest your extra money in other areas, such as purchasing a home, starting a business, or taking up recreational activities.

7. Mouthwatering Food:

No matter where you go in North Carolina, you’re guaranteed to find some delicious food. Whether it’s BBQ from the western part of the state or fresh seafood from the coast, you won’t be disappointed.

North Carolina is also home to various ethnic restaurants, offering everything from Mexican to Vietnamese cuisine.

Plus, the state has many farmers’ markets and local wineries, breweries, and distilleries that produce some of the country’s best craft beverages and food products.

When it comes to groceries, you can find plenty of fresh produce, healthy options, and organic items at your local grocery stores.

8. Events and Festivals:

North Carolina has plenty of events and festivals to keep you busy. Enjoyment is never in short supply, from music, art, and film festivals to cultural celebrations.

The state is home to some of the biggest music festivals in the country, including the Hopscotch Music Festival and the Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival. Plus, many local events, such as the Carolina Renaissance Festival and Brewgaloo, celebrate North Carolina’s unique culture and traditions.

In the state, you can also find plenty of outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and hiking. It’ll feel like you’re vacationing all year round!

Conclusion:

North Carolina is an ideal place to live. It is home to some of the best educational opportunities, a thriving job market, low taxes, delicious food, and plenty of fun things to do. Whether looking for a place to raise your family or start a business, North Carolina is the perfect place to do it. But before you plan your big move, be sure to take everything into consideration.

Ultimately, decide what’s best for you and your family and make a move if it makes sense. You won’t regret it!