Raleigh, Durham, or Charlotte—Which is Your Best Fit?
Each of these metropolises has something unique to offer and depending on what you’re looking for in your next home, one of these cities might be the best option for you!
North Carolina offers an unparalleled quality of life in many regards. Thanks to its moderate, sub-tropical climate, residents get to experience every season, although some are milder than others. And depending on whether you’d prefer to live in the city or the mountains, beach or the lake, the expansive state has a little of everything for everyone. It’s no wonder that North Carolina is seeing incredible growth each year!
There are three cities specifically which stand out in the state – Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte. Each of these metropolises has something unique to offer and depending on what you’re looking for in your next home, one of these cities might be the best option for you!
Raleigh, the Capital City
Population: 1,444,000
Average Salary: $66,000
Largest Industry: Technology
Unemployment Rate: 4.7%
Median Home Cost: $305,000
The city of Raleigh combines modern, urban living with traditional southern flair, and is an excellent choice for those looking to explore new and exciting career opportunities. As the second-largest city in the state, Raleigh is also home to the largest research park in the United States which stretches across 7,000 acres and hosts over 250 businesses of all sizes and industries. This city continues to be a popular choice for those relocating from other major tech hubs (like Silicon Valley) thanks to it’s great cost of living coupled with career opportunities. It has been named one of the fastest growing housing markets in the US and one of the top three cities for first-time homebuyers in recent years.
Durham, the City of Medicine
Population: 282,737
Average Salary: $67,000
Largest Industry: Academia
Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
Median Home Cost: $261,870
Durham is only twenty-five miles away from Raleigh, and yet it attracts a fairly different group of people – namely academically-focused individuals and young families. Nicknamed “Bull City,” Durham is home to Duke University, which employs over 34,000 across its sprawling 8,600 acres. Durham has a lot to offer outside of work hours – exciting nightlife, mouth-watering cuisine, and entertainment! Still, families are opting to call this city their home thanks to the outstanding public-school system and plentiful single-family homes for sale. It has also been named one of the top cities for entrepreneurs to consider.
Charlotte, the Queen City
Population: 2,054,000
Average Salary: $67,000
Largest Industry: Financial Services
Unemployment Rate: 8.0%
Median Home Cost: $310,000
Charlotte, North Carolina, is the largest city in the state and is just thirty minutes shy of the South Carolina border. Home to the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, and Charlotte Checkers, this sports-centered city is a huge draw for millennials and young professionals looking to experience a city lifestyle without the price tag. With an international airport, massive financial institutions providing jobs for many, and a thriving social scene, the Queen City is initially attractive to those who are looking to focus on their careers and their social lives simultaneously. Still, as families begin to develop and move outward into the suburbs, it’s also becoming a wonderful option to settle down and start a family – or get that dog that you’ve always wanted! It has also been named one of the fastest growing housing markets in the United States in recent years.
Atmos is proud to partner with local experts across the great State of North Carolina to help design, build, and move into the home of your dreams. Get started today!
