Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina in 2024

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    (Last Updated – 12/2023)

    Known as the Tarheel State and located along the Eastern seacoast, North Carolina is one of the country’s fastest-growing states, with a 1.3% population growth between 2021 and 2022, which puts it ninth in the nation. With several urban metropolises (Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, and the Research Triangle), college towns, and lush rural areas, you’re likely to find a place to live that fits what you’re looking for. And to top it all off, North Carolina’s overall cost of living metric comes in at 96.1, which means it is about 4% more affordable than the national average of 100.

    This list compiles some of the most wallet-friendly spots to settle in across the state. Read on to learn about the best affordable places to live in North Carolina for families, young professionals, retirees, and beach lovers.

    Best Places to Live in North Carolina

    In addition to a wide range of urban, suburban, and rural areas, North Carolina also has a wonderful range of geographic diversity. From the beaches of the Outer Banks along the Atlantic Coast to the Smoky Mountains in the western part of the state, you’re sure to find a beautiful area that fits your budget and desired amenities.

    In this guide, you’ll read about diverse towns that are among the best places to live in the state. There are major cities like Charlotte and tiny seaside villages like Oak Island. There’s something for just about everyone in this state of almost 11 million.

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    Affordable

    Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina

    First on this list are five places that shine because of their affordability. If you want a high quality of life and low costs, one of these may be your next hometown.

    1. Greensboro

    Greensboro, North Carolina

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    Home to Elon University, Guilford College, and UNC-Greensboro, Greensboro is a metro area located in between Winston-Salem and Raleigh-Durham in central North Carolina. You can visit the Greensboro Science Center (home to red pandas and sharks) or take a stroll on the elevated boardwalk of the Bog Garden. If you’d rather catch improv night at a local comedy club or sip some Syrah at a wine bar, there’s that as well. Over 300,000 people reside in Greensboro, and the home price-to-income ratio is a reasonable 3.27.

    Population: 301,115

    Median Household Income: $51,667

    Cost of Living: 84.2% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,500

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.27

    Average Property Tax: 1.04%

    Housing Affordability: Housing in Greensboro is fairly affordable, with the median rent price below the national average. As noted above, the home price-to-income ratio (as measured by the median home price value divided by the median household income) is also below the national average of 4.

    2. Southern Pines

    Southern Pines is a small town in the rolling hillside of Moore County in south-central North Carolina. Southern Pines has several places within town limits on the National Register of Historic Places, including the James Boyd House, Shaw House, Firleigh Farms, and Mile-Away Farms, which give the town historic charm. In addition, residents enjoy the great outdoors as well as locally owned boutiques and restaurants.

    Population: 16,596

    Median Household Income: $69,792

    Cost of Living: 93.9% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,098

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.32

    Average Property Tax: 0.77%

    Housing Affordability: The overall cost of living in Southern Pines is below the average in North Carolina, about 6% below the national average. However, both the median rent price and home price-to-income ratio are a bit higher than you might expect for a town with a low cost of living.

    3. Cary

    Cary, North Carolina

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    The town of Cary is part of the Raleigh-Durham metro area, located directly west of Raleigh and south of Durham. Nature lovers can enjoy Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and the Fred G. Bond Metro Park, while you’re also close enough to the larger cities of Raleigh and Durham to take advantage of their amenities and nightlife.

    Population: 180,388

    Median Household Income: $113,782

    Cost of Living: 105.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,100

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.55

    Average Property Tax: 0.96%

    Housing Affordability: The cost of living in Cary sits at 105.8, somewhat above the state and national average. The home price-to-income ratio, however, is below the national average, though, which may make it easier for first-time homebuyers to afford to purchase a home.

    4. Kinston

    Kinston, North Carolina

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    The county seat of Lenoir County, Kinston is located in the coastal plains of eastern North Carolina. There’s history there to absorb: The CSS Neuse Museum showcases a steam-powered ironclad ship that was part of the Confederate Navy in the Civil War. Neuseway Nature Park, located on the Neuse River, is another favorite town attraction. But there’s also a burgeoning foodie, art, and maker scene, which can make Kinston a very fun place to live.

    Population: 19,365

    Median Household Income: $33,280

    Cost of Living: 75.4% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,195

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.93

    Average Property Tax: 1.03%

    Housing Affordability: When you look at the overall cost of living by state, North Carolina comes in below the national average, and Kinston has a cost of living that is even lower than that. Both the median rent price and home price-to-income ratio are quite low, meaning that housing in Kinston should be relatively affordable no matter whether you are looking to buy or rent. The average home value is currently $132,922.

    5. Henderson

    Henderson, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/J. Michael Jones

    Although North Carolina has a Henderson County, the city of Henderson is actually located in Vance County. What residents love about their town: The John H. Kerr Reservoir and Kerr Lake State Recreation Area (part of the Roanoke River) is just outside the city limits, offering a variety of outdoor pursuits. The McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in Henderson presents world-class live entertainment, adding to the appeal of the town.

    Population: 14,822

    Median Household Income: $36,147

    Cost of Living: 72.1% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $995

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.61

    Average Property Tax: 0.98%

    Housing Affordability: The home price-to-income ratio and cost of living in Henderson are significantly below the national average, as are rental prices (which fell $1,205 vs. the previous year), making this an affordable place to call home.

    Best Places to Live in North Carolina for Families

    If you’re interested in a good, affordable place to raise kids, these five places to live in North Carolina are among the most family-friendly.

    1. Wake Forest

    Wake Forest, North Carolina

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    The city of Wake Forest is located in Wake County just to the north of the capital city of Raleigh. One of North Carolina’s fastest-growing cities, Wake Forest has seen its population more than triple since 2010. Falls Lake State Recreation Area is nearby, containing both Falls Lake itself as well as over 20,000 acres of woodlands. Almost 60% of residents are families, indicating plenty of opportunities for play dates once you’re done exploring the area’s natural beauty.

    Population: 51,113

    Median Household Income: $104,006

    Cost of Living: 105.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,095

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.16

    Average Property Tax: 0.96%

    Housing Affordability: The city of Wake Forest is relatively affordable. The cost of living is a bit above the national average, but the home price-to-income clocks in below the national average. The median rent price and average county property tax values are slightly higher, but still fairly reasonable.

    2. Apex

    Apex, North Carolina

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    Also located in Wake County, the town of Apex is named for its location as the highest point on a portion of the old Chatham Railroad. Apex’s proximity to the Research Triangle Park has helped to fuel its growth, with a median household income well above the national average. Plenty of families call Apex home: In fact, three out of four households are families. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is also nearby, giving opportunities for nature lovers to revel in the outdoors.

    Population: 71,065

    Median Household Income: $121,313

    Cost of Living: 105.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,295

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.06

    Average Property Tax: 0.96%

    Housing Affordability: While the median rent price in Apex is a bit above the national average, the home price-to-income ratio is lower than you might expect. While part of this may be due to the high median household income, it still could mean that it is relatively cheaper to buy than rent. If you are looking to buy, make sure you check out the different types of mortgage loans that are available to you.

    3. Davidson

    Davidson, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Jon Bilous

    The town of Davidson lies in the northern suburbs of Charlotte, alongside Lake Norman. Home to Davidson College, Davidson is a college town with a charming downtown and historic district. Families enjoy the local school system, and if they want a weekend outing to a city, Charlotte is less than 25 miles away, which can also mean parents may have a short commute.

    Population: 15,771

    Median Household Income: $141,845

    Cost of Living: 102.5% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,375

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.37

    Average Property Tax: 1.03

    Housing Affordability: When compared to the overall cost of living in North Carolina, living in Davidson will set you back a bit more than average. Still, a median household income well above the national average can help to ease the sting.

    4. High Point

    High Point, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Laser1987

    High Point is so named for being the highest point along the 1856 North Carolina Railroad that went between Charlotte and Goldsboro. High Point is part of the Greensboro / Winston-Salem metro area and boasts the semiannual High Point Furniture Market, the largest furniture trade show in the world. This concentration of furniture companies can also offer jobs to local families, which account for almost two out of three households. When not enjoying local parks, kids may visit the Nido & Mariana Qubein Children’s Museum.

    Population: 115,067

    Median Household Income: $54,331

    Cost of Living: 84.2% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,474

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.09

    Average Property Tax: 1.04%

    Housing Affordability: The cost of living in High Point is well below the national average and below the already low cost of living for North Carolina as a whole. All of the housing indicators are below the median values, making High Point a relatively affordable place to live, regardless of whether you are looking to buy or rent.

    5. Raleigh

    Raleigh, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Mlenny

    North Carolina’s capital city, Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle area that includes the nearby cities of Durham and Chapel Hill. Home to North Carolina State University, Raleigh also boasts the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of Art, and the North Carolina Museum of History. Parents often say they are pleased with the local school system, especially the STEM programs.

    Population: 476,587

    Median Household Income: $72,996

    Cost of Living: 105.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,895

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.91

    Average Property Tax: 0.96%

    Housing Affordability: The overall cost of living in Raleigh sits right around the average for the state, around 4% below the national average. Both the median rent price and home price-to-income ratio are also below average, though the average property tax in Wake County (where Raleigh is located) is among the higher figures in the state.

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    Best Places to Live in North Carolina for Young Adults

    For young professionals, who typically are looking for engaging jobs, affordability, and entertainment options, North Carolina has plenty of options. Here, five favorites.

    1. Charlotte

    Charlotte, North Carolina

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    First on this list of best places to live in North Carolina for young professionals is Charlotte, the largest city and metro area in the state. It has plenty of jobs, entertainment, nightlife, cafes and restaurants, and other amenities (rooftop yoga, for instance). The modern city center (called Uptown) features the Levine Museum of the New South along with a thriving arts and entertainment district. Carowinds amusement park and the NASCAR Hall of Fame are also located in the Charlotte area.

    Population: 897,720

    Median Household Income: $68,367

    Cost of Living: 102.5% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,033

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.77

    Average Property Tax: 1.03%

    Housing Affordability: Despite its large size and many amenities, Charlotte is still fairly affordable, with an overall cost of living just slightly above the national average. The median rent price and home price-to-income ratio are much lower than many comparable metro areas throughout the country.

    2. Asheville

    Asheville, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    The city of Asheville is located in western North Carolina, along the famous Blue Ridge Mountains. Asheville boasts a slew of historic architecture, including the dome-topped Basilica of Saint Lawrence. The Biltmore estate, dating back to the 19th century, is another main attraction, something that both residents and tourists enjoy. The downtown area is full of indie boutiques, breweries, art galleries, and restaurants. Hiking, whitewater rafting, and other outdoor activities await as well to suit nature-loving young professionals.

    Population: 93,776

    Median Household Income: $58,193

    Cost of Living: 105.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,200

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.49

    Average Property Tax: 0.78%

    Housing Affordability: The overall cost of living in Asheville is slightly above the national average and that of North Carolina as a state. The home price-to-income ratio is slightly above average, meaning that purchasing a home or doing a mortgage refinance may be somewhat more difficult than in other regions.

    3. Durham

    Durham, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    Part of the Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area, the city of Durham is often mentioned alongside its neighboring city of Raleigh. But Durham has plenty going for it on its own, including its own job opportunities and its vibrant downtown with murals, award-winning eateries, and nightlife options. Prefer to spend time outdoors? The Sarah P. Duke Botanical Gardens is a free attraction featuring over five miles of wooded walks and pathways.

    Population: 291,928

    Median Household Income: $66,623

    Cost of Living: 98.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,900

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.96

    Average Property Tax: 1.17%

    Housing Affordability: The median rent price, overall cost of living, and home price-to-income ratio in Durham sits right around the national average in all three categories. This means that housing in Durham should be fairly typical of what you might expect in the country as a whole.

    4. Fayetteville

    Fayetteville, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    Fayetteville is one of the largest cities in southeastern North Carolina, sitting along the Cape Fear River. It’s about 65 miles from Raleigh, and Fort Bragg is nearby. With a dense suburban feel, Fayetteville has historical buildings, such as the Poe House, dating back to the 19th century, and plenty of outdoor activities, from paddling to hiking. The city also has a minor league baseball team and other sporting events to cheer on.

    Population: 208,873

    Median Household Income: $48,923

    Cost of Living: 81.4% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,400

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.84

    Average Property Tax: 1.2%

    Housing Affordability: Housing, along with many other parts of life, is quite affordable in Fayetteville. The median rent price is fairly low, and, if you’re looking to buy, the home price-to-income ratio is lower than in other areas. This might make the mortgage preapproval process go more smoothly.

    5. Winston-Salem

    Winston-Salem, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    Winston-Salem is the county seat of Forsyth County and, along with Greensboro and High Point, part of the Piedmont Triad area. It’s said to have a healthy job market, which is a plus. Home to Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem combines many of the benefits of being a college town with the perks of living in a slightly larger city and urban area. The Arts District can be a fun place to hang out. The Old Salem Museums and Gardens and the Reynolda House are two other popular attractions in the area.

    Population: 251,350

    Median Household Income: $50,204

    Cost of Living: 84.3% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,350

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.16

    Average Property Tax: 1.1%

    Housing Affordability: Housing is fairly affordable in Winston-Salem, with the median rent price (which is $345 lower year over year) and home price-to-income ratio both below the national average. If you’re looking to buy a starter home, Winston-Salem may be a great place to do so. This is especially true if you can take advantage of some of the first-time homebuyer programs in North Carolina.

    Best Places to Live in North Carolina for Retirees

    With its year-round pleasant weather, beautiful landscape, and charming towns, this state can be a great place for those who are shifting out of the workforce. Here, five of the best places to live in North Carolina for retirees.

    1. New Bern

    New Bern, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/ChrisBoswell

    Located in eastern North Carolina where the Neuse River starts to open up and enter the Atlantic Ocean, New Bern offers many amenities for retirees. If you like the outdoors, the Croatan National Forest is just outside the city limits. History buffs will find plenty to do. Some of the attractions in New Bern include visiting the historic Tryon Palace complex, viewing North Carolina’s first capitol building, and stopping by the Birthplace of Pepsi, the drugstore where the drink was first created in the 1890s. Housing options include senior living communities.

    Population: 31,539

    Median Household Income: $45,829

    Cost of Living: 83.6% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,600

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.66

    Average Property Tax: 0.79%

    Housing Affordability: New Bern is a fairly affordable city, with an overall cost of living of 83.6%, almost 17% below the national average. The average property tax for Craven County is also quite low, making it an affordable place for housing, no matter if you’re renting or buying.

    2. Henderson

    Henderson, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/J. Michael Jones

    Making a second appearance on the list, Henderson is located in Vance County in northern North Carolina, near the state’s border with Virginia. There are at least a dozen senior living communities in the town, though only about 17% of residents are 65 or older. This can indicate a good, diverse mix of residents, which many retirees may enjoy. To explore the outdoors, there’s Kerr Lake State Recreation Area nearby, with plenty of hiking trails and boating opportunities. The downtown has been undergoing a revitalization program to attract new businesses to the town.

    Population: 14,822

    Median Household Income: $36,147

    Cost of Living: 72.1% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $995

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.61

    Average Property Tax: 0.98%

    Housing Affordability: The cost of living in Henderson is very affordable, with the overall cost of living, median rent price, home price-to-income ratio and average property tax all well below metrics in other areas. One of our best tips to qualify for a mortgage is to buy in an area that fits in your budget, and buying in Henderson can help you do that.

    3. Hickory

    Hickory, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Jeff Yount

    The city of Hickory sits about 60 miles northwest of Charlotte, alongside Lake Hickory, a sprawling lake that is part of the Catawba River Chain of Lakes. Along with Lake Norman further downstream, these bodies of water offer many recreation opportunities. The Hickory Aviation Museum, Hickory Museum of Art, and the Catawba Science Center are all major attractions in the city that may prove interesting to seniors. Another plus for retirees: the town’s well-regarded medical system.

    Population: 44,084

    Median Household Income: $53,117

    Cost of Living: 89% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,395

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.75

    Average Property Tax: 0.77%

    Housing Affordability: Despite its closeness to Charlotte, Hickory remains fairly affordable. The median rent price and average property tax are both quite low, and the home price-to-income ratio also is lower than the national average. This is a good indication that you should be able to find affordable housing in Hickory, no matter if you’re looking to rent or buy.

    4. Brevard

    Brevard, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Craig Zerbe

    Brevard is the largest city and county seat of Transylvania County, located in southwestern North Carolina. A quaint town, Brevard sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and is known as the gateway to the Pisgah National Forest. Visit the Silvermont Mansion and Park in town, or hit the woods for the Crystal Mountain Gem Mine, Looking Glass Falls or Sliding Rock. In town, there’s a brewery and restaurant scene to take part in. In terms of house, Brevard offers single-family homes as well as active retirement community options.

    Population: 7,818

    Median Household Income: $46,058

    Cost of Living: 93.8% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,895

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.60

    Average Property Tax: 0.52%

    Housing Affordability: While the overall cost of living and property tax in Brevard are below average, the median rent price and home price-to-income ratio are a bit higher than you might expect for a city of Brevard’s size. This may be due to its location in a mountain area that might be popular for vacation homes. If you’re looking to buy in Brevard and aren’t sure if you can afford it, check out a home loan help center for tips on how to turn your dreams into reality.

    5. Pinehurst

    Pinehurst is a small village located in Moore County, about 50 miles west of Fayetteville in southern North Carolina. Pinehurst is perhaps most well-known for the historic Pinehurst golf resort, which has hosted the U.S. Open golf tournament several times. There are actually nine championship golf courses in the town, which may appeal to retirees, along with the reasonable cost of living. The Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, Given Memorial Library, and Tufts Archives are also attractions worth checking out if you move to the area.

    Population: 18,416

    Median Household Income: $92,342

    Cost of Living: 93.9% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,000

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.67

    Average Property Tax: 0.77%

    Housing Affordability: Housing metrics in Pinehurst fit right around the national average, which means it should be just about as affordable to live in Pinehurst as anywhere else in the country. The median household income in Pinehurst is well above the national average, which helps to keep the home price-to-income ratio number down.

    Best Places to Live in North Carolina Near the Beach

    North Carolina is known for its natural beauty, and beaches are part of that. Here are five of the best places to live near the shore that won’t bust your budget.

    1. Wilmington

    Wilmington, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/DenisTangneyJr

    The largest city in North Carolina that sits alongside the Atlantic Ocean, Wilmington is in southeastern North Carolina, about 75 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach. For those who love sand beneath their feet, Wilmington could be perfect. It also sits as the gateway to a slew of beaches along the Cape Fear coast, like Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. In addition, it has a walkable riverfront, an arts and culture district, and historic downtown area to explore.

    Population: 120,324

    Median Household Income: $54,066

    Cost of Living: 98.1% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $1,900

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.18

    Average Property Tax: 0.74%

    Housing Affordability: The overall cost of living in Wilmington is slightly below the national average. However, the home price-to-income ratio is a bit higher than in other parts of the state. So if you’re looking for a mortgage prequalification or preapproval, you’ll want to make sure that you have all of your financial documents in order. That will help you maximize your chances of approval as well as landing your dream beach home.

    2. Beaufort

    Beaufort, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/NRedmond

    Next on the list of best places to live in North Carolina near the beach is Beaufort. Established in 1713, it’s the fourth-oldest town in North Carolina and the county seat of Carteret County. This small town can be a great base for those who love exploring the beach and the nearby Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. In addition, Beaufort is known for being a friendly, welcoming town, with a relaxed pace of life, and charming old cottages lining the streets.

    Population: 4,464

    Median Household Income: $36,466

    Cost of Living: 99.3% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,750

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.44

    Average Property Tax: 0.57%

    Housing Affordability: The overall cost of living and average property tax of Carteret County are below average. However, life and housing are a bit more expensive than you might expect for a town of this size, indicating the popularity of housing near the beach and ocean. Housing prices have risen 4.3% year over year.

    3. Nags Head

    Nags Head, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Sean Pavone

    Part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks region, Nags Head features miles of pristine beaches alongside a touristy vibe that you might expect from a popular resort town. Along with the Atlantic Ocean beaches, you can visit the sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park or the Nags Head Woods Preserve. The pace is more relaxed during the off-season; when the visitors arrive, the town hosts many festivals and other attractions.

    Population: 3,182

    Median Household Income: $74,256

    Cost of Living: 108.4% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,400

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 9.17

    Average Property Tax: 0.62%

    Housing Affordability: Like many built-up beach towns, housing in Nags Head can be expensive, with the cost of living, median rent price, and home price-to-income ratio all above the national average. If you’re looking to buy a home in Nags Head, where the average home value is just under $700,000, you’ll want to make sure you have a great home mortgage loan that fits into your overall budget. When renting, note that off-season rents can be $1,000 less than the high-season price you see above.

    4. Oak Island

    Oak Island, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/Licec

    Oak Island is a beach town in North Carolina near the South Carolina border, separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway. The Oak Island Nature Center offers nature trails for nature lovers, and the Oak Island Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the ocean as well as nearby Bald Head Island. If you enjoy fishing, make sure to check out the Ocean Crest Pier, which juts out into the ocean and is a popular gathering point for fishermen. Residents enjoy the laid-back, rural vibe of life in Oak Island.

    Population: 9,322

    Median Household Income: $85,802

    Cost of Living: 101.4% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,500

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.31

    Average Property Tax: 0.79%

    Housing Affordability: Although the median rent price and median home price in Oak Island (currently about $533,000) are higher than you might see in some other areas of North Carolina, they are also lower than some of the other beach areas. A cost of living metric of 101.4% indicates that the overall cost of living in Oak Island is slightly higher than the national average, though only by one-plus percentage point.

    5. Duck

    Duck, North Carolina

    Photo credit: iStock/felixmizioznikov

    Duck is one of the smallest and farthest north of the towns in the Outer Banks region. Primarily known as a tourist town, the town’s population balloons during the summer months. Those who choose to make the tiny town their year-round home will find it’s quite quiet in the off-season. Duck offers plenty of outdoor activities as well as Town Park and a boardwalk stretching alongside Currituck Sound. For aviation enthusiasts, Kitty Hawk and the Wright Brothers National Memorial are a short drive away.

    Population: 584

    Median Household Income: $107,083

    Cost of Living: 108.4% of the U.S. average

    Median Rent Price: $2,363

    Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.93

    Average Property Tax: 0.62%

    Housing Affordability: As a small resort town with a limited housing supply, housing can be quite expensive in Duck and the other towns in the Outer Banks region. Median home values can spiral up towards $1 million. The median household income is quite high, which may help with affordability. Depending on the purchase price of the home, you may need to apply for a jumbo mortgage loan. Rental prices drop considerably off-season versus the rates above, but be warned: Units are in short supply.


    The Takeaway

    There are plenty of affordable places to live in North Carolina, whether you’re a young professional, part of a family, or a retiree. The state as a whole offers a cost of living about 4% below the national average, and even more affordable towns can be found, from its beautiful beaches to the Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for the best place to live in North Carolina, start by determining your budget and which features and amenities are most important to you. Then, start comparing your options to find your ideal spot and eventually get shopping for your new home.

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    FAQ

    Where is the best and cheapest place to live in North Carolina?

    There are many different cities, towns and villages across North Carolina, and each one has a different set of amenities and cost of living. Among the affordable options are Greensboro, Cary, and Kinston.

    Where is the best area to live in North Carolina?

    There isn’t one single place to live in North Carolina that is considered the best — instead, the best place to live in North Carolina will vary depending on your budget and what types of amenities are important to you. The good news is that North Carolina has a diverse geography, from beaches to mountains, and everything from quaint small towns to vibrant cities. So you’re likely to find a place to live in North Carolina that suits you.

    What part of NC has the cheapest rent?

    The rental market throughout North Carolina varies quite a bit, depending on the location, amenities and the number of bedrooms of a house. Of the cities on this list of the best places to live in North Carolina, Kinston, Henderson, and Hickory had some of the lowest median rent values.


    *SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

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