Best Places to Live in North Carolina

Moving from one city or state to another is a huge deal and when it comes to selecting the right place, things can get a bit tricky. We don't always have the complete information on which city is best or ideal to reside in. So when it comes to selecting or zeroing in on North Carolina, it is better to have as much information you can get. North Carolina, a state which is situated in the southern part of the United States, harbors 100 counties. A state with huge geographical diversity, North Carolina is equipped with beaches, mountains, and vineyards, all in the same place. Not only it is one of the favorite places for old folks to retire in, the North Carolina tourism is big as well. It attracts thousands of vacationers from all over the country for its perfect Appalachian Trail for trekking and hiking. With so much to offer its residents, no wonder people are searching for economical and terrific places to live in North Carolina.

But before we get any further with this article, I'd like to point out something. When the word "best" gets mentioned anywhere, it's quite difficult to judge what is best from everyone. The meaning or interpretation of "best" will differ from person to person. The town, city, state, and country we live in, it shapes us into who we are as a person. Our daily lives are bound to that particular place and we somehow end up becoming a part of it as well. However, there are always certain places we would love to live in and make a life of our own there. And if you feel that North Carolina can be one of those places, then this article can give you names of various cities that rank high for families to live in.

Gorgeous Coastal Places in North Carolina

If you're a person that loves the beach or at least visit one whenever the heart desires, North Carolina can be quite an exciting place for you. North Carolina also has a gorgeous coastline and you can definitely take that into consideration. There are some of the most amazing beaches in North Carolina that can leave you mesmerized. Some of the best place you can choose to live near are:

• Beaufort
• Indian Beach
• Salter Path
• Emerald Isle
• Pine Knoll Shores

Now that we have talked about the beaches in North Carolina, let's take a look at some gorgeous images of the state as well.

* Click on the images for a better view.

10 Amazing Places to Live in North Carolina

Each city has its own set of culture, lifestyle, quality of living, attractions, and comfort levels that suit a certain age, race, gender, and economic demographics. If you have decided or still are in the process of whether or not to choose North Carolina as your abode, we may be able to help you out here. Go through the following cities in North Carolina and see if any of these locations can be your future residence.

Boone
The city is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a population of about 17,186; as of 2011. Similar to Asheville, Boone is in the western part of North Carolina and is home to the Appalachian State University, which is also a fellow member of the University of North Carolina. Boone is about 3,333 feet above sea level that gives warm summers, less hotter than the west and east of the state. During winters, the temperature can drop to a point where residents experience blizzard-like conditions.

Mount Airy
This city is located in the Surry County, North Carolina and has a population of around 10,388; as of 2010. It's a beautiful small town which actually makes it one of the best places to retire. Also known as 'Small Town USA', living in Mount Airy gives you that neighborly feeling where everyone knows everyone, literally. The famous actor Andy Griffith was born there, along with Chubby Dean (MLB player), Donna Fargo (country singer), Ben Callahan (MLB player), and many more. Mount Airy does give you a cozy, homely feeling.

Salisbury
This city is situated in Rowan County, North Carolina and has a population of about 33,663; as of 2010. Salisbury is known because it was the birthplace of Bobby Jackson (NBA player), Elizabeth Dole (former US Senator), and the loved aerated beverage, Cheerwine. The city has wide choices for shopping (antique shops), eating and dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. As for the educational system in Salisbury, N.C., it has 14 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, 7 high schools, 10 private schools, and 4 colleges and universities.

Asheville
This city is located in the western part of North Carolina. Asheville is the largest city in that area which keeps growing each year. The population count, as of 2010, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, was around 83,393. The climate is really good for the entire year with a little hike (warmer) during the months of June to September. And as for the educational system in Asheville, N.C., it has few of the top 100 high schools in the U.S., according to Newsweek magazine. Asheville is one of the popular vacation spots as well.

Apex
The town is located in Wake Count, North Carolina and has a population of around 37,476; as of 2010. Apex is neighbors with Raleigh (east), Holly Springs (south), and Cary (north). It has all the benefits of living in a small town and has the advantages of big city amenities. The transportation services are well up-to-date and the educational system is noteworthy.

Elizabeth City
The city is situated in Pasquotank County and Camden County and has a population of around 18,683; as of 2010. According to author Norman Crampton, Elizabeth City has been named as one of the 'top 100 best small towns in America'. The city is located at the glorious Pasquotank River which attracts many visitors. The climate in Elizabeth City is stable throughout the year with a good amount of rainfall.

Monroe
This city is located in Union County, North Carolina and has a population of about 36,397; as of 2010. There's a Charlotte-Monroe Executive Airport which is only 5 miles away from the city. Monroe was home to some famous faces like Walter P. Carter (civil rights activist), Jesse Helms (US Senator), Speedy Thompson (former NASCAR driver), and many more.

Lexington
This city is an administrative center for Davidson County in North Carolina and has a population of around 18,978; as of 2010. There are 5 major highways that connect neighboring states together. And if you're into barbecues, then Lexington is the place to live. Each year, Lexington holds the very famous Barbecue Festival that attracts hundreds of enthusiasts from across the country. No wonder the city claims to be the 'Barbecue Capital of the World'.

New Bern
The city is situated in Craven County and has a population of about 29,524; as of 2010. Not many people know this but New Bern is the birthplace of Pepsi and is the 2nd oldest town of the state. The climate of this city is enjoyable with occasional highs during the months of May to September. New Bern has some notable people as well, such as, Graham Arthur Barden (13 term Congressman), Bob Mann (NFL player), Walt Bellamy (MBA player), Furnifold Simmons (US Senator), and many more.

Fayetteville
Last, but certainly not the least, Fayetteville, North Carolina is located in Cumberland County and has a population of about 366,363 (definitely a bigger number than the rest of them); as of 2011. Fayetteville is the largest metropolitan area and the 5th city in the southern part of North Carolina. In 2008, Fayetteville was named the 'World's First Sanctuary for Military Families' because of its support to the dignitaries and the community as a whole. Fayetteville, N.C. is United States' most pro-military town, according to Time Magazine.

Each county/city in this state is diverse from one another and has something unique, special to offer its residents. If you didn't feel that way, perhaps you may not even be searching for the best places to live in North Carolina, would you? It isn't surprising that each year, more and more people, from all over the country are opting to make a home for themselves here. I hope that this list was informative for you and will help you in making the final decision.