This North Carolina County Ranks Best Place To Live In The State
We moved to North Carolina 17 years ago. And, we love it here. Also, ironically, it was the birthplace of my husband’s parents all those years ago before relocating to Texas. So, in a way, we brought the family roots full circle. And, apparently we aren’t alone in our love of the state. Data-driven website Stacker conducted a study of Niche figures from 2022. The site ranks schools and neighborhoods using government sites and various sources. Also, looking at cost of living, health, diversity, activities and a host of other factors they determined some of the best counties to live in North Carolina. And, Wake County, home to capital city Raleigh, comes in at number one. This North Carolina county ranks as the best place to live in the Tar Heel State.
According to a story in the News and Observer, the county offers first class educational, social and job opportunities. The results published February 10. Stacker points out counties that rank “best” offer a “good mix of opportunities for fun outdoor activities and cultural attractions.” And, the study points to a number of historical sites, good schools, jobs and affordable housing that lead to happy residents. Furthermore, Wake County scored “A” in most of the qualifying categories. However, the county scored a “B” on Niche when it comes to weather and commute times, as well as cost of living. But, Raleigh was recently named one of the nation’s best places for college students to live. Wrapping up, the top five counties to live included Orange County at number 2. Mecklenburg, home to Charlotte, appeared at number 3. Finally, Durham and Union Counties finished 4 and 5 respectively. But, if you’re considering a move, you might want to check out the North Carolina county that ranks best in the state.
Forbes Says These Are The Best Places To Live In North Carolina
8. Asheville
Population: 94,067
Median Home Prices: $524,950
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $7,912
Average Income: $53,621
Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Community Wellness Score: 61/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 12,001
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains Asheville is a mountain paradise. The city offers many different vibes, it’s downside however is the higher cost of living, especially homes, than other areas of the state.
7. Hickory
Population: 43,532
Median Home Prices: $341,400
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $6,041
Average Income: $48,653
Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
Community Wellness Score: 48/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 4,566
I was a little surprised to see Hickory mentioned on this list, it’s just not usually one of the cities that shows up on these types of things. Forbes mentions that the location is a great factor, being 1 hr from Asheville and Charlotte. Hickory has a lower cost of living, a location at the base of the mountains, and southern charm.
6. Greenville
Population: 88,728
Median Home Prices: $351,450
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $6,760
Average Income: $42,612
Unemployment Rate: 4.5%
Community Wellness Score: 59/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 7,768
Another city we don’t always see mentioned. Greenville, NC is the home of East Carolina University and has a lot of the feel of a college town. It’s also a short drive from the beach, but close enough to the Triangle to get your big city fix.
5. Winston-Salem
Population: 250,320
Median Home Prices: $319,950
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $6,180
Average Income: $47,269
Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
Community Wellness Score: 55/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 15,209
This metro area has a relatively low cost of living, is a relatively safe city, has a thriving job market, and plenty of things to do.
4. Charlotte
Population: 879,709
Median Home Prices: $425,000
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $7,126
Average Income: $65,359
Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
Community Wellness Score: 60/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 79,369
Are you surprised Charlotte was only 4th on this list? There are plenty of job opportunities in banking, healthcare, and technology. It’s a lot more expensive than other cities on this list. And that crime total is significantly higher, but this is also due to a larger population.
3. Durham
Population: 285,527
Median Home Prices: $495,507
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $7,218
Average Income: $61,962
Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Community Wellness Score: 71/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 23,603
Located in the heart of the research triangle Durham is a growing, bustling city full of opportunity. Healthcare and technology offer high-paying jobs giving residents a great quality of life.
2. Wilmington
Population: 117,643
Median Home Prices: $529,900
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $7,296
Average Income: $51,137
Unemployment Rate: 3.5%
Community Wellness Score: 60/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 9,416
This coastal town is right near several beaches and located on the Cape Fear river making it an ideal location. The downtown offers lots of history and plenty of jobs. It’s no wonder it’s ranked the 2nd best place to live in North Carolina.
1. Raleigh
Population: 469,124
Median Home Prices: $486,500
Estimated Monthly Expenses: $7,349
Average Income: $69,720
Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
Community Wellness Score: 63/100
Criminal Offenses Reported: 24,944
Our state’s capital is also the best place to live! The high quality of life, proximity to jobs in RTP, and the smaller town feel in a large city. I’ve called Raleigh home in the past and it’s still my second home where I spend around 10-12 weekends a year.
