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Living in North Carolina: Is It a Good Place to Live?

What is North Carolina known for?

North Carolina provides a blend of rural and urban living. With an average home price of $208,800, it offers affordability. Residents work in hubs like the Research Triangle Park and enjoy leisure in the Appalachian Mountains and Outer Banks. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry, ranking second in the nation. The state is home to unique barbecue flavors and festivals like MerleFest. North Carolina's crime rate varies by location. Its culture-rich environment provides opportunities for community involvement.

77% of North Carolinians identify with the Christian faith, 3% with other religions, and 20% are unaffiliated. The racial breakdown is 61% White, 23% Black or African-American, 10% Hispanic or Latino, 3% Asian, 2% with two or more races, and 1% Native American. The Lumbee Tribe, with over 50,000 enrolled members, represents a significant native community. There are also growing communities of Vietnamese, Hmong, and Laotians.

If you’re a student, the state is home to an array of colleges and universities known for fields like technology, medicine, and liberal arts. Families often relish the many outdoor activities available, from hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains to days at Outer Banks beaches. Singles will find a social haven in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, which have an active nightlife and numerous social events. Retirees often gravitate toward smaller communities like Asheville for its laid-back atmosphere and arts scene. For couples, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers romantic getaways with scenic overlooks and picnic spots. North Carolina is diverse, with multiple cultural festivals and places of worship to accommodate people of different backgrounds, ethnicities, beliefs, and genders.

Data Sources for North Carolina: Overview