Moving to North Carolina can be a fantastic choice, no matter your age or place in life! NC offers a diverse range of living options, from booming cities to serene mountain towns with a view.
Here’s an iMoving classic guide to help you with your move and decision-making:
1. Research Your Destination within NC
Cities & Regions: North Carolina has many different regions, all with their own flavor and style. Think to yourself if you are more fit for city life or the mountains.
- Charlotte: The largest city, known for its financially vibrant sector with lots of new work opportunities and companies moving out here every day as well as its vibrant arts scene.
- Raleigh: The state capital, part of the Research Triangle, known for its great universities and tech industry. There are tons of hightech sector jobs awaiting you in Raleigh. If you are fresh out of college I would say this is the perfect place for you.
- Durham: Home to Duke University, with a growing cultural scene. This town attracts many smart A-level students who decide to stay even after their college days end.s
- Asheville: Famous for its artsy vibes and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you love hiking and nature
- Wilmington: A coastal city known for its beaches and historic downtown.
Climate: North Carolina has many climates:
- Coastal Areas: Mild winters and hot, sunny NC fun yet humid summers. NC has some great beaches to take advantage of the seaside life.
- Piedmont Area: Hot summers and quite surprisingly cold winters with snowfall sometimes.
- Mountain Areas: Cooler temperatures year-round and more snowfall. Depending on your altitude, the temperatures will change, so be aware of your height.
2. Housing Options
Finding a Home: Research neighborhoods based on your lifestyle needs—whether you want urban amenities, tranquility in a more natural area, or rural charm. Websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and local real estate agents will help you find relevant market options. First, you need to decide on the right region for you, and then the agents will be able to help you narrow down your choices.
Rent or Buy?: Depending on your long-term plans, decide whether to rent or buy. Renting might be a good option to get a feel for the area as you start off your journey in NC. If you have more capital to invest, consider buying and selling as much real estate in this area keeps rising in value, and you are likely to earn a nice percentage.
Property Taxes: North Carolina has relatively low property taxes compared to many states, but rates vary by area. NC is looked at as a tax friendly state.
3. Next Step: Utilities and Other Services
Change of Address: First thing’s first- notify the USPS, banks, credit card companies, and other relevant institutions of your new address.
Setting Up Utilities: Contact local utilities for electric, water, gas, and internet needs. Major providers include:
- Electricity: Duke Energy (in Charlotte and the surrounding area), Dominion Energy (in the western part), and more.
- Water: Local city
- Internet: Spectrum, AT&T, and Google Fiber lead here.
4. Health and Safety
Healthcare Providers: Locate new health service providers. North Carolina has a range of great and known hospitals and clinics, many do research work with Duke University, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest.
5. Transport
Vehicle Registration: If you’re bringing a car, you’ll need to register it in North Carolina within 30 days of moving to avoid fines. This is a critical tip many people don’t know. Visit the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles DMV for details.
Driver’s License: You’ll also need to update your driver’s license. This can be done at a local NC DMV office. There isn’t a fine for this, but it is recommended.
Public Transit: Major cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro have pretty reliable public transit options. Research local bus and rail services if you’re planning to use public transportation. Overall if you aren’t in the heart of the city, you will need a private car.
6. Cost of Living
Budgeting: North Carolina’s cost of living is generally lower than the national average. Depending on where you are coming from it may even feel “cheap.” Costs can vary widely by city and region. For example, Charlotte and Raleigh tend to be more expensive compared to smaller towns as is most of the USA.
Taxes: North Carolina has a set state income tax rate and sales tax that changes by county.
7. Lifestyle Changes
Weather Adaptation: Be prepared for the weather specific to your region—whether it’s humid coastal beach air or cooler mountain temperatures and great views.
Outdoor Activities: North Carolina offers a ton of outdoor activities, from extreme hiking in the Smoky Mountains to simpler hikes in lower mountain regions to enjoying the beaches of the Outer Banks. You have something for everyone of every age.
Local Fun: There are countless festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural events across the state. North Carolina is known for its classic Southern hospitality, BBQ, and history.
8. Settle In
Explore the Area: Take time to explore your new city or town. Make it fun for your kids by letting them choose a different spot to visit each day. Check out the local attractions, try new restaurants with Southern hospitality, and get to know your neighbours.
