Research Says Iconic North Carolina Accent Is Fading Away
Accents are a funny thing. Being from Texas, I’m acutely aware of this. I never knew I had one, until my wife and I moved to Florida and was asked about it all the time. As we moved to South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina, I became aware that not all southern accents are the same. Each has its own idiosyncrasies. And don’t even get me started on Virginia. I will say this though, and I may be biased. North Carolina’s southern drawl is among the most charming. And according to research, it is fading away.
The primary explanation makes all the sense in the world. Post World War II, in the 1950s and 1960s, we were not quite the transient society we are today. For the most part, nationwide, people were born, raised, lived, and died within a reasonably small region. For example, my parents were born and raised in Charlotte. They left for Texas in 1964 and none of their families could not believe it. None of them ever left the Tar Heel State.
However, as I outlined earlier, I’ve lived all over. That’s America in the 21st century. Not only are North Carolinians moving about the country, but the rest of the country is moving into North Carolina. Charlotte has become the second biggest banking center in the nation behind New York. And it feels like New York has moved to Charlotte as a result, right?
According to ABC 11, Demographics show nearly half of North Carolina adults, 49%, were born somewhere else, and non-natives are now a majority in 18 counties, including all three counties that make up the Triangle: Wake, Durham and Orange.
So, of course this has affected how we talk. Slowly, but surely, the North Carolina southern drawl is fading away. We’re not alone. Researchers are finding the same situation happening in Geogia as well.
Fading away is not disappearing, though. Think about how many people who obviously, “aren’t from around here” (ie from “up north”) have adopted “Y’all” to their vocabulary and everyday lexicon?
3 North Carolina Cities Named Best Southern Cities By Southern Living
12. Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina, USA downtown skyline.
Coming in at number 12 on the list is Raleigh. Our state’s capital city is home to a number of wonderful restaurants, museums, festivals, and of course, the North Carolina State Fair which happens every October. It’s also home to the Carolina Hurricanes hockey team, and several universities.
11. Charlotte, NC
Back to back are Charlotte and Raleigh the two largest cities in the state. And while I don’t buy into the “rivalry” between the two cities this time Charlotte one-upped Raleigh. An ever-growing city Charlotte is home to breweries, renowned restaurants and shopping, Carowinds, and the US National White Water Center. And for the sports lovers, there is the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Football Club, Charlotte Knights, and NASCAR is a short drive north in Concord.
3. Asheville, NC
All the way at number 3 is the mountain paradise of Asheville, NC. It eclipses destinations such as New Orleans, Nashville, and Austin Texas. Which are heavy hitters. But Asheville’s beauty and culture can’t go unrecognized. Whether it’s the incredible culinary scene, attractions like Biltmore and the Grove Park Inn, hiking, or the arts culture there is something for everyone to love in Asheville. Visit in October during leaf season? You’re in for an even bigger treat!
7. Greenville, SC
Once a dilapidated section of Greenville, South Carolina, Falls Park on the Reedy is now a beautiful urban park space with walking trails, falling water, surrounded by art galleries and restaurants.
Greenville has had quite a revival of late and has positioned itself as a destination city in South Carolina. From festivals to the bustling downtown, parks, trails, and more after a visit you’ll be saying what the locals say “Yeah, that Greenville”.
1. Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina (SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images Plus)
I’d be shocked if Charleston didn’t top this list. The city received (deservedly so) accolade after accolade and is a popular vacation destination for people all over the country. The gorgeous scenery, historic downtown, world-class restaurants, bars, and more make it what it is. And in my, completely biased opinion, is there a better example of a quintessential southern city? I think not.
