The Cost of Living in North Carolina

More in the Carolina Core - For Less

Home to the vibrant NC Triad, the cities in the Carolina Core deliver some of the best living experiences in North Carolina—and the nation. Here, you can enjoy big-city amenities without the big-city price tag. Explore what communities in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point, Fayetteville and more have to offer. From exploring trails to dining at one of our many local restaurants, you’ll surely find something enjoyable for everyone.

Despite the exciting lifestyle, you won’t have to worry about paying the typical high prices of other expensive states on the coast, like Florida, New York, or California. In fact, the cost of living in North Carolina is well below the national average, with one of the lowest costs of living around. You can also take advantage of the Carolina Core’s easy access to nearby cities like Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and Charlotte, which offer additional cultural and recreational experiences.

If you’re curious about North Carolina’s cost and just how far your average salary can stretch here, use our Cost of Living Calculator below to see the difference—it’s your key to unlocking the Core’s unmatched value.

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FAST FACTS

15% Lower

Overall Cost of Living Across the Carolina Core Than the National Average

Top 100

Best Place to Live in U.S. (Winston-Salem)

Livability, 2024

25-50% Lower

Housing Costs Across the Carolina Core Than the National Average

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Cost of Living

Housing

The Carolina Core shines with its affordable housing costs, making it an attractive destination for talent considering relocation and interested in being a homeowner. The cost of living in the region is well below the national average, and the cities in the Core are considered some of the most affordable places to live in North Carolina. For example, the median home price is $290,000 in Greensboro, $240,000 in Fayetteville, and $267,500 in Winston-Salem.

With lower home prices than the United States median home price of $338,000, a real estate agent can get you more space for your money when buying a home in North Carolina compared to pricier markets like New York. Plus, the average North Carolina property taxes are 0.70%, lower than the 0.99% national average.

For those looking to rent, the Carolina Core offers similarly appealing affordability. A two-bedroom apartment in Winston-Salem typically costs 15-20% less than the national average, making it a smart choice for those seeking lower monthly rent while enjoying life in a vibrant metro area.

Cost of Living

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Carolina Core is home to top-notch healthcare facilities, including renowned institutions such as Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Cone Health, and Novant Health. These facilities provide high-quality medical services found in larger metro areas and other North Carolina cities.

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist is known for its cutting-edge research and advanced treatments in specialties like cancer care, neurology, and regenerative medicine. Cone Health provides a wide range of medical services, including heart and vascular care, orthopedics, and women’s health, while also emphasizing wellness programs and preventive medicine to keep the community healthy. Novant Health offers a comprehensive network of hospitals, outpatient centers, and primary care facilities, focusing on patient-centered care and community health initiatives.

With each healthcare provider contributing to our robust medical ecosystem, the Carolina Core truly is a place where we prioritize your health and well-being.

Cost of Living

Lifestyle

Living in the Carolina Core means not just affordability at home but also when you’re out enjoying life. Whether it’s dining at local restaurants, catching a sporting event or exploring nearby attractions, the area’s food costs and entertainment choices are affordable. Public transportation options, like the Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation (PART), connect the core cities—Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point—and help keep transportation costs low.

Families can also breathe easy knowing that childcare expenses are below the national average. Additionally, North Carolina is a tax-friendly state with a flat 4.50 percent individual income tax rate, a 2.5 percent corporate income tax rate and average sales tax rate of 7 percent. These lower state income taxes and sales tax help keep more money in your pocket. Here, you’ll find that affordability extends beyond just housing—it’s a lifestyle that includes everything from dining out to childcare.

Aerial view of dinner goers at a restaurant in the Carolina Core

Carolina Core Communities

Ready to make a move? Explore our interactive community map to learn about Carolina Core cities and discover helpful local resources that will make your move a cinch.

See Carolina Core Communities

Partial skyline of downtown Winston-Salem

Carolina Core Employers

All you need now is a job. Fortunately, there is no shortage of opportunities among Carolina Core employers in booming industries like aerospace, technology, life sciences and more.

See Job Opportunities

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More Fun

Your salary stretches further in the Carolina Core. What will you do with that extra spending cash? From delectable cuisine, to concerts and festivals, or picking up that state-of-the-art mountain bike to ride our trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your extra dollars in the Core.

Explore Core Activities

Cost of Living

More in the Carolina Core - For Less