Top 10 Places To Live In North Carolina 2025 as you are Living in Raleigh NC

Why North Carolina is Booming

North Carolina is experiencing rapid growth with its four-season climate, robust economy, and plenty of fun destinations perfect for day trips. My family and I relocated from Southern California 7 years ago, and we've seen firsthand why so many people are choosing to call this state home. Today I'm sharing the top 10 places to live in North Carolina in 2025, considering factors like job markets, cost of living, outdoor recreation, university access, and proximity to the coast.

1. Apex

Known as "the peak of good living," Apex has evolved from a quaint town into a sought-after destination near Raleigh with around 75,000 residents. The town offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and big city access, with proximity to the Research Triangle's healthcare, technology, and education jobs. The median household income is around $138,400, with median home prices at approximately $655,000. Despite its growth, Apex maintains its charm with a picturesque historic downtown, family-friendly festivals, top-rated schools, and convenient access to major employment hubs.

2. Raleigh

As North Carolina's capital and the cornerstone of the Research Triangle, Raleigh blends urban sophistication with Southern charm. With a population approaching 500,000, the City of Oaks offers a strong job market, affordable living costs (about 2% lower than the national average), and high quality of life. The median household income is around $121,000, with median home prices around $449,950. Raleigh's diverse economy is driven by biotechnology, technology, and education, supported by eight universities within a 20-mile radius. The city boasts 10,000 acres of parkland, 180 miles of greenways, a rich cultural scene, and excellent transportation infrastructure. Its central East Coast location puts many destinations within a day's drive.

3. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is routinely ranked as one of the best college towns in the US. With small-town vibes and a population around 62,000, it's known for picturesque landscapes, outdoor recreation, and top-quality schools. Home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (the nation's first public university), the town offers a quiet, family-friendly lifestyle with excellent healthcare. Living costs are about 5% above the national average, and the median household income is around $85,200. Chapel Hill's rich art scene includes the Carolina Performing Arts Center and the Ackland Art Museum.

4. Durham

Durham, home to prestigious Duke University, completes the Research Triangle with over 300,000 residents. The Bull City offers a strong job market with projected growth exceeding 30%, attracting students and professionals alike. Utility costs run 9% less than the national average, with major employers in banking and healthcare. The acclaimed Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) hosts major performances and Broadway shows. The median household income in Durham is around $78,500.

5. Cary

This thriving suburban town has transformed into North Carolina's seventh-largest municipality with nearly 200,000 residents. Cary blends urban amenities with suburban charm, featuring safe neighborhoods, bike-friendly parks, and excellent healthcare. Major employers include SAS Institute, Epic Games, and WakeMed. The median household income is impressive at $160,400, with home prices around $620,000 (29% higher than the national average). Cary is known for extensive parks, greenway trails, the Koka Booth Amphitheater, and top-ranked schools in the Wake County system.

6. Charlotte

As North Carolina's largest city and America's second-largest financial hub, Charlotte hosts nearly 1 million residents (2.3 million in the metro area). Home to Bank of America headquarters and Wells Fargo's East Coast operations, the Queen City offers strategic access to mountains, beaches, and other major cities. Charlotte features excellent schools, healthcare, universities, museums, and a diverse culinary scene. The median household income is around $74,700, with median home prices around $422,000 (10% below the national average). The city boasts professional sports teams (NFL Panthers, NBA Hornets), excellent transportation including an international airport, and a growing job market with 30% projected growth in healthcare and technology.

7. Wilmington

This coastal gem offers serene beaches and the historic Cape Fear Riverwalk. With a rich World War II history and home to UNC Wilmington and Cape Fear Community College, the city attracts both students and those seeking coastal living. Tourism, education, and a growing film industry drive the economy. Wilmington features one of the state's largest historic districts (230 blocks) with cobblestone streets and oak-lined avenues. The median household income is around $63,900, with home prices averaging $465,000 (23% below the national average). The city offers a thriving arts scene, walkable river district, and diverse dining options.

8. Asheville

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville ("Land of the Sky") is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and the French Broad River. Known for its vibrant art scene, independent breweries, and five-star restaurants, Asheville ranks in the top 20 best places to live according to US News & World Report. The city boasts the country's shortest commute times (22 minutes) and ranks 10th for quality of life. The median household income is around $63,800, with home prices averaging $490,000. Major employers are in healthcare, tourism, and education. Asheville's historic downtown, the magnificent Biltmore Estate, and surrounding natural beauty continue to attract newcomers despite recent hurricane recovery efforts.

9. Winston-Salem

The Twin City offers a blend of tobacco and textile heritage with modern appeal. With 254,000 residents, Winston-Salem provides an affordable cost of living (6% below national average), vibrant downtown, rich history, diverse dining, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Major employers include Wake Forest Baptist, Reynolds American, and Hanesbrands, with strengths in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The median household income is around $81,300. Winston-Salem is home to Wake Forest University and attractions like Old Salem Museum and Gardens.

10. Greensboro

The Gate City (population 304,000) offers Southern charm with a mix of urban and suburban living. Affordable housing, good schools, and diverse recreation options make it appealing for families. Greensboro has a rich history, strong emphasis on education, and a growing job market (26% projected growth) in manufacturing, education, and healthcare. The median household income is around $81,800, with median home prices at $285,100 (well below national average). Home to UNC Greensboro, the city features a vibrant art scene, thriving food options, and attractions like the Greensboro Science Center and International Civil Rights Center. Recognized for sustainability with LEED silver certification, Greensboro aims for 100% renewable energy by 2040.

Finding Your Perfect North Carolina Home

North Carolina offers something for everyone, from bustling urban centers to serene coastal towns and mountain retreats. If you're considering relocating to this beautiful state, I would love to help you find your perfect home.