Best Places to Live in North Carolina
North Carolina is a state with endless possibilities. From the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the scenic Atlantic coastline in the east, the Tar Heel State offers renters a diverse landscape and lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a busy city with lots to do, a quiet mountain getaway, or a relaxing coastal town, North Carolina makes it easy to find a place you'll love to live in.
Looking for your next home? Continue reading to see our recommendations for the best cities to live in North Carolina in 2025 based on their lifestyle and culture, outdoor recreation options, access to healthcare, quality of schools, and economic growth.
Best Cities in North Carolina
1. Asheville, NC
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and at the top of our list as the best place to live in North Carolina, Asheville is known for its beautiful scenery, artistic culture, and relaxed pace of life. It’s no wonder U.S. News includes it in the top 20 of their ranking of the best places to live in the U.S., which analyzes data from 150 major cities across the nation.
If you’re thinking about making Asheville your next home, here’s what you’ll love about it:
- Lifestyle and Culture: Asheville brims with creativity—think art galleries, live music, and a food and craft beer scene that’s recognized nationwide.
- Outdoor Recreation: You can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike the trails of Pisgah National Forest, or take in the breathtaking mountain views year-round.
- Access to Healthcare: Rest easy knowing you’ll have access to nearby healthcare, including Mission Hospital, one of the largest facilities in Western North Carolina.
- Quality of Schools: Asheville provides excellent education options for families, and its public school district is ranked in North Carolina’s top 10.
- Economic Growth: You can find plenty of opportunities in Asheville’s growing economy, which is driven by tourism, healthcare, and a thriving small business community.
2. Raleigh, NC
As North Carolina’s capital, Raleigh is a city with a great balance of historic charm and modern innovation. It’s part of the famed Research Triangle, with other thriving cities like Durham and Chapel Hill nearby. Here’s what makes Raleigh a great city to live in:
- Lifestyle and Culture: Raleigh has everything from performing arts to a lively downtown scene. Whether you’re exploring the North Carolina Museum of Art or catching a show, there’s always something to do.
- Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy abundant green spaces, with over 180 parks and miles of scenic greenways perfect for walking, biking, or relaxing outdoors.
- Access to Healthcare: You’ll have access to healthcare facilities, including WakeMed Health & Hospitals and Duke Raleigh Hospital.
- Quality of Schools: Raleigh is served by the highly regarded Wake County Public School System, offering strong academic programs. The city is also a hub for higher education, with NC State University and nearby Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill.
- Economic Growth: As part of the Research Triangle, Raleigh’s economy is thriving and provides job opportunities in technology, healthcare, education, and research.
3. Wilmington, NC
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in North Carolina by the ocean, Wilmington is the place to be. This charming coastal city is known for its laid-back vibe, historic charm, and easy access to some of North Carolina’s best beaches. See what else makes this city rank in our list of the best places to live in NC:
- Lifestyle and Culture: Wilmington’s historic downtown and scenic Riverwalk have a variety of local shops, waterfront dining, and a lively arts scene.
- Outdoor Recreation: Living in Wilmington offers easy access to some of North Carolina’s best beaches, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach. Spend your days swimming, boating, fishing, or soaking up the sun.
- Access to Healthcare: Wilmington is home to high-quality medical care, including New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
- Quality of Schools: Families in Wilmington benefit from New Hanover County Schools, which offer strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.
- Economic Growth: Wilmington’s economy is growing steadily, driven by industries like tourism, film production, and a port that supports trade and job opportunities.
Is North Carolina a Good Place to Live?
The short answer: yes, North Carolina is a great place to live! Ranked #19 overall by the U.S. News & World Report, the state stands out for its strong economy (#11 in the nation), affordable cost of living, and excellent quality of life.
With thriving cities like Asheville, Raleigh, Wilmington, Charlotte, and more, residents enjoy job opportunities, great schools, and access to high-quality healthcare. Plus, the state’s diverse landscape offers breathtaking views and endless outdoor activities. Whether you’re seeking career growth, a welcoming community, or a laid-back coastal lifestyle, North Carolina has something for everyone.
Find Your Next Home in North Carolina
Finding a place to live in North Carolina is all about comfort, location, and quality. Our recommendation? Belle Meadow! As the best place to live in Asheville, our 4 bed, 3 bath homes for rent offer a prime location and modern amenities with all the comforts you need. Contact us today and see why so many people are choosing to call Belle Meadow home—schedule a tour today.