Advice From a Leading New York to North Carolina Moving Company
If you are considering making a major long distance move from New York to North Carolina, we have one question to ask: what are you waiting for?
With amazing weather, a great climate, a top job market and some of the friendliest residents, North Carolina has become a leading destinations for individuals and families leaving New York.
As you consider all of your moving destinations, the staff at Al’s Moving and Storage, a leading New York to North Carolina moving company, put together everything you need to know about moving to the Tar Heel State beginning with the most important questions.
Moving From New York to North Carolina: Is It A good Idea?
North Carolina offers an emerging business climate, a lower cost of living and beautiful weather all across the state. Simply put, living in North Carolina is a dream. With a population over 10 million people, North Carolina is now the tenth largest state in the U.S. and it continues to grow. It’s a popular state for transplants, especially from New York and it offers all sorts of lifestyles for a variety of residents.
North Carolina is split into three geographic regions. In the east are the coastal plains, which take up nearly half the state. The central area is the Piedmont region, which contains five of the state’s largest cities. In the west are the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most-visited national park in the United States.
In between these areas are miles of parks and beaches, allowing residents to enjoy North Carolina’s outdoor activities to the fullest.
Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill make up the “Triangle” region, and they’re some of the most popular destinations to call home. North Carolina has recently emerged as a research and technology hub, which might not paint the clearest picture of life in this state—because what really gives North Carolina its charm is the small-town community and unique personality.
No matter which town you decide on, we can tell you one thing: you’re going to love moving from New York to North Carolina.
What are the pros and cons of moving to North Carolina?
What are the best places to live in North Carolina?
Stretching nearly 500 miles long, moving to North Carolina is an adventurer’s dream. Whether you enjoy spending your free time exploring nature’s mountains and beaches or you prefer more of an urban lifestyle, North Carolina’s cities offer something for everyone.
Here are some of the best places to live in North Carolina:
Charlotte
Known as the largest city in North Carolina and one of the best places to live in the U.S., Charlotte has become a popular destination for migrants around the country.
Between its up-and-coming neighborhoods, vibrant downtown life and family-friendly communities, it’s no wonder that singles, young couples and families are moving from New York to Charlotte at a fast rate. Located in southeast North Carolina, it’s also a short drive to Asheville and South Carolina—offering even more to do in this area.
Raleigh
As the state capital and second-largest city in North Carolina, Raleigh has tons to offer its residents. The city has an impressive technology hub, including its 7,000-acre Research Triangle Park (RTP), home to more than 200 companies and 50,000 employees. If you’re moving to Raleigh, you’ll love the laid back environment, endless outdoor activities and Southern hospitality.
Durham
About 30 minutes north of Raleigh is another great place to plant some roots in North Carolina: Durham.
Durham is part of the Research Triangle, and it is known as the City of Medicine for many reasons. It has one of the top 10 hospitals in the U.S. and a physician-to-population ratio almost 5 times the national average. Home to Duke University, Durham is one of the few popular sports towns in North Carolina. Residents love their Blue Devils!
Chapel Hill
Home to the University of North Carolina and its Carolina Tar Heels, Chapel Hill is a thriving college town not far from Raleigh and Durham. Durham’s economy is closely tied to technology, science and the arts, and it boasts a strong educational program. From locally owned ice cream shops to breathtaking views of Jordan Lake, Chapel Hill is all about living authentically.
Asheville
Calling all foodies: Asheville is THE place to be for food.
But really—it’s officially dubbed the world’s only “Foodtopian Society,” where residents believe incredible food fuels everything. Residents can enjoy the culinary collaborators’ creativity, passion and local flavors that combine into a unique experience for all. Between delicious food, an eclectic music and arts scene, and outdoor adventures at nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Wilmington
Located in the Outer Banks region, Wilmington is the ultimate destination for beach lovers.
In a short drive, residents can visit Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Unlike many of North Carolina’s top areas, Wilmington is far from suburbia. This historic port town is quaint, charming, and most of all, friendly. The area encourages locally owned shops, small businesses and even a dog-friendly downtown. For those who appreciate an eclectic, laid back lifestyle, Wilmington would make the perfect home.
Greensboro
Nicknamed the “Gate City” due to its short distance to all the major cities in the state, Greensboro is one of North Carolina’s top destinations. Although it’s home to North Carolina’s third-largest metro, the area feels like a small community—making it the perfect place to raise a family. Residents can enjoy plenty of attractions, including a zoo, waterpark, art galleries and golf courses.
What is the cost of Moving From New York To North Carolina?
In one word: affordable! If you’re moving from New York to North Carolina, expect low home prices, low rent and low taxes.
If you’re relocating from a larger metro area, you can also expect more house for your money. At 23 percent below the national average, Charlotte has one of the most affordable housing markets in the country. The cost of living in Asheville, for example, is 44 percent lower than New York City—while the salaries are only 27 percent lower.
The median home price in Charlotte is around $240,000. If you’re looking to purchase a home, act now! Trulia experts predict an increase in home prices over the next year. Here’s what you can expect if you’re looking to rent in North Carolina:
- Studio apartment: $985 compared to a national average of $1,050
- 1-bedroom apartment: $800 compared to a national average of $1,000
- 2-bedroom apartment: $940 compared to a national average of $1,200
- 3-bedroom apartment: $1,100 compared to a national average of $1,500
The cost of utilities in Charlotte is also 14 percent lower than the national average, contributing to North Carolina’s low cost of living and high quality of life.
What is the job market like in North Carolina?
No matter which city you’re moving to, there are plenty of career opportunities across several different industries—including small businesses and startups.
“I think the exciting thing is that in our larger cities other than the Triangle – the Triad Region, Charlotte, and communities like Asheville and Wilmington and Greenville – there are very refreshing locally grown entrepreneurial initiatives, some represented by co-working spaces,” notes Scott Daugherty, North Carolina’s Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) director. “We are seeing more and more communities looking at creating that kind of space.”
What was once known as a traditional economy built on tobacco and manufacturing has quickly evolved into a technology-driven economy. Energy, finance and information technology are all rapidly growing sectors in the state with several major employers nearby.
Is North Carolina a good place to retire?
If you’re moving from New York to North Carolina and wondering what retirement life looks like, you’re in the right place. From majestic mountains to incredible vistas and exciting hikes, who wouldn’t want to spend their retirement in North Carolina?
The numbers back up the argument, too. North Carolina has an affordable housing market. The cost of living for retirees is 3.7% cheaper than the national average. Taxes are generally low, too, making North Carolina a great place to settle down in your later years.
Here are five of the most popular places to retire in North Carolina:
Brevard
Offering beautiful waterfalls, mountains and friendly locals, this town was No. 5 on Forbes’ list of Best Places to Retire in the U.S.
Asheville
This breathtaking city located in the Southern area of the Appalachians is historical, hip and always has something going on.
New Bern
If you’re familiar with the movie “The Notebook”, you might fall in love with this quaint, charming town near the sea.
Outer Banks
If your idea of relaxation is by the sea, Outer Banks is for you. Retirees can soak up the sun or relax in a beach house.
Davidson
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Charlotte, Davidson is a lakeside town offering a small-town feel and Southern hospitality.
Will you spend your retirement years relaxing on a beach? In the mountains? Shopping downtown? Regardless of which you prefer, North Carolina’s geography, culture and diverse range of destinations have you covered.
Considering moving to North Carolina?
Will you be moving from New York to North Carolina for a condo in Charlotte? Beach views near Lake Norman? Incredible food in Asheville? Regardless of your preferences, North Carolina is a beautiful state for planting your roots. If you’re debating moving to North Carolina, hopefully our relocation guide will help answer some of your most important questions.
If you’re looking for assistance through the moving process, we’re here to help! Al’s Moving offers weekly long distance moving services from New York to North Carolina.
What are you most excited for in moving from New York to North Carolina? What tips do you have for new residents? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!