Is Raleigh Better Than California? Why My Family Never Looked Back After Moving to NC

By: Brandy Nemergut Published on: 12/06/2025

Discover why a California family chose North Carolina over the Golden State and will never move back. Compare real costs: housing 157% higher in CA, Raleigh homes averaging $427K vs $740K+ in California. From a client who sold their $500K CA home and bought cash in Raleigh with money left over, to gas prices $2.50/gallon cheaper - see the dramatic lifestyle differences. Explore education benefits (NC ranks top 10 for affordable tuition, 29% less per student than San Diego), traffic comparisons (20-30 min Raleigh commutes vs 1-hour for 5 miles in CA), Southern hospitality, four seasons, and quality of life improvements. Perfect for Californians seeking affordability, space, better schools, and escape from traffic, high taxes, and housing costs. Get insider tips from a family who made the successful transition to Triangle living.