North Carolina has always been a fairly reasonable state to live in. We enjoy beautiful scenery, all four seasons, and plenty of outdoor activities…all for a moderate price. But, it seems a lot of people are starting to catch on and move here-increasing the population, the need for housing, and the cost of living.
As rent (the average rent rate in Charlotte is now over $1000) and housing prices rise…a lot of young families and even those who just want to live within their means are leaving the cities and heading for small towns or suburbs.
But where should you go? Luckily, a website called Area Vibes does the work for you. They use a special algorithm and consider factors like livability (0-100), amenities, cost of living, crime (or safety rating), education, employment, housing…even weather (on a scale of A-F). But these are all things you usually consider when making a big move.
I used their site to find the most affordable places to live in North Carolina. Places that still have a great safety record and access to all the things you’ll possibly need.
This small town has a community feel but is in close proximity to both Greensboro, High Point, and Winston. Archdale received an 81 livability score (on a scale of 100) an A+ cost of living and a B+ safety rate.
Not too far from Raleigh, but with a complete feel of its own, Clayton is perfect for those seeking a simple, small town life. But don't let simple fool you, there's plenty of community activities and ways to get involved and have a little fun. Clayton received a livability score of 82 with an A in cost of living and a B in safety.
A great option for living outside of Charlotte is Mount Holly. Not to mention the downtown is charming, there's greenery and plenty of hiking nearby, and you can even purchase some affordable waterfront property. Mount Holly received a livability score of 79 with an A in cost of living and B in safety.
Not far from Charlotte, but still a reasonable place to live, Kannapolis has the city close but a feel of its own. They received a livability score of 78 with an A+ cost of living and B for safety.
If you're looking to kick back and live a peaceful existence in a quaint mountain town, Morganton is for you. You're also not too far from Asheville...that is if you want to leave! Morganton received a livability score of 77 with an A+ cost of living and a C+ in safety.
Race city is close enough to Charlotte for a commute, but far and unique enough to have an atmosphere of its own. Residents enjoy plenty of shops, restaurants, NASCAR and of course Concord Mills. Concord received a livability ranking of 81 with a B+ in cost of living and a B in safety.
Knightdale actually ties with Concord in terms of livability, cost of living, and safety. But this town is a reasonable option for a Raleigh suburb...or just a quiet place to settle down and raise a family.
The charming Belmont has historic mansions, a beautiful college campus, and a lovely downtown area. This family-friendly town is just as much its own entity as it is a suburb of Charlotte. Belmont received a livability score of 80 with an A in cost of living and a C in safety.
Havelock is home to Cherry Point, the largest marine corps air station in the nation. Marine families are in luck, as their living conditions are both beautiful (right on the water and near the beach) and affordable. Havelock received a livability score of 80 with a B+ cost of living and a B in safety. I mean....I think it's safe to say you'll be well protected here.
Certain Raleigh suburbs are certainly pricy but Garner is on the rise as a great option for living outside the city in a small town. The historic district is brimming with charm and you'll be near plenty of restaurants, shops, and parks. Garner received a livability score of 80 with a B+ in cost of living and a C in safety.
And there you have it, the ten most affordable places in North Carolina, that are still safe, and fun to live in. If you want to see my exact data click here.
Do you live in any of these towns? Think your town should have made the list? Where do you think is the most affordable place to live in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments!
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