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True Southern Comfort: 20 Best Cities to Live and Visit North Carolina

Driven by my passion for exploring new places, I was intrigued when I first learned about the geographic and topographical diversity of North Carolina. From the highest mountains in Eastern America in the west to the stunning barrier islands of the Outer Banks and Cape Lookout, with the rolling Piedmont hills and coastal plains in between – this state has it all!

In this article, we will highlight the 20 best cities to live and visit in North Carolina based on our travels across the Tar Heel State. You will discover thriving urban hubs, charming small towns, and hidden gems that exemplify the Southern comfort that speaks volumes about North Carolina.

Join us on this journey through the mountains, coasts, and everything in between to find your next favorite spot in one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the South! Come along.

Here are the 20 Best Cities to Live in and Visit in North Carolina.

1. Charlotte: A Hub of Urban Excitement

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Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Charlotte is a thriving metropolis and one of the best cities to live and visit in the Tar Heel State. Known as the Queen City, it offers a bustling urban environment filled with rich culture, world-class dining, and endless recreational activities.

Furthermore, with its impressive skyline and vibrant neighborhoods, Charlotte provides the perfect blend of southern charm and modern city living. From museums and sports to nightlife and shopping, Charlotte has something for everyone seeking an exciting urban getaway.

2. Raleigh: The City of Oaks

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As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is a quintessential pick for the best cities to live and visit. Renowned for its plenty of oak trees that line the charming streets and parks, Raleigh marries a cosmopolitan lifestyle with community charm.

Moreover, the city’s historic sites, museums, and research Triangle Park, coupled with a flourishing food scene and various festivals, make Raleigh an ideal home base. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love the proximity to greenways and parks located in the City of Oaks.

3. Durham: A Haven for Innovation

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Durham is one of North Carolina鈥檚 most dynamic cities. Nicknamed 鈥淭he City of Medicine鈥� and 鈥淏ull City,鈥� Durham is home to Duke University and an emerging entrepreneurial community.

What’s more, the downtown area features restored tobacco warehouses turned into trendy restaurants, breweries, and startups. Durham’s diversity and growth make it a popular place to live, work, and experience the Southern tech hub.

4. Asheville: Where Mountains and Culture Meet

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is revered for its breathtaking scenery and flourishing arts scene. The downtown features Art Deco buildings, farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, galleries, and music venues that host famous bands.

Additionally, outdoor lovers enjoy hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting in the surrounding wilderness areas. Asheville‘s natural beauty and cultural attractions make it one of the most vibrant small cities in America.

5. Wilmington: Coastal Charms and Historic Delights

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Located along the Cape Fear River, Wilmington charms visitors with its historic architecture, quaint waterfront setting, and nearby beaches. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk to enjoy views of passing boats before exploring the historic district’s mansions.

Further, check out the Battleship North Carolina museum or take a quick drive to relax on Wrightsville Beach. Wilmington’s coastal location, fascinating history, and hospitality make it a beloved destination.

Thus Wilmington stands out as a city that seamlessly combines historic charm with coastal beauty. With its picturesque riverfront, historic district, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Wilmington is a haven for those who appreciate a blend of maritime history and modern coastal living.

6. Chapel Hill: A Quaint College Town

Chapel Hill exudes youthful energy as the home of the University of North Carolina. Students and locals alike frequent Franklin Street, which boasts boutiques, bookstores, and restaurants.

Nearby, the Morehead Planetarium and Ackland Art Museum enrich the cultural landscape. Chapel Hill’s college-town setting, Southern charm, and lively mix of academics, arts, and athletics create an unforgettable experience.

On top of that, as home to the University of North Carolina, this city exudes a charming, small-town feel combined with the vibrancy of college life. Chapel Hill is among the best cities to live and visit in North Carolina, offering a lively atmosphere, cultural events, and a strong sense of community.

7. Greensboro: A City for All Seasons

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Greensboro delights visitors year-round with its temperate climate, family-friendly attractions, and diverse culinary options. The city features over 200 parks, boating and fishing on Lake Brandt, and Bog Garden – one of the world’s largest botanical gardens.

Besides, the International Civil Rights Museum honors Greensboro’s role in activism, while the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway provides 32 miles for hiking and biking. Greensboro appeals to everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies.

Also, this city situated in the heart of the Piedmont region, is known for its diversity and welcoming community. With a rich history in civil rights and a vibrant arts scene, Greensboro is an excellent choice for those seeking a city with a strong sense of identity and inclusivity.

8. Fayetteville: Military Heritage and Natural Beauty

Nestled in the Sandhills region, Fayetteville has a rich military history as home to Fort Bragg, the massive Army installation. Learn about our armed forces at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum.

Better still, Fayetteville features gorgeous golf courses and botanical gardens. Nearby, explore the Cape Fear River along the downtown riverfront. Fayetteville honors its defense roots while also tapping into natural beauty.

9. Winston-Salem: Twin City of Arts and Innovation

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Winston-Salem is the historic twin city of Salem, known for its dedication to the arts and technological innovation. More than 90 pieces of public art are on display downtown. Visit the Reynolda House Museum of American Art or catch a show at the Stevens Center. Don’t miss the SciQuarium, merging science center and aquarium. Home to Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem sustains creativity and innovation.

Additionally, Winston-Salem is celebrated as a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary, making it one of the best cities to live and visit in North Carolina.

10. Cary: A Suburban Oasis

Located in the Raleigh metro area, Cary is a planned suburban community consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in North Carolina. Well-rated schools, low crime rates, and family-friendly amenities like parks and pools characterize Cary.

Further, the town boasts the upscale Cary Towne Center mall and easy access to Raleigh’s museums and performing arts. Cary’s top-notch services and proximity to Raleigh make it an idyllic suburb. As a rapidly growing suburb of Raleigh, Cary offers a suburban oasis for those seeking a quieter yet well-connected lifestyle.

11. High Point: Furniture Capital of the World

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High Point has rightfully earned its reputation as the Furniture Capital of the World, hosting the famous High Point Market trade shows that attract over 75,000 industry professionals twice a year.

Over and above that, High Point has much more to offer residents than just furniture. This Piedmont Triad city provides a strong sense of community, an impressive selection of parks and greenways, and popular events like the John Coltrane Jazz & Blues Festival.

Further, the High Point Museum and Aquatic Center offer family-friendly entertainment and education. With a blossoming downtown and easy access to the mountains and coast, High Point is one of the most livable cities in North Carolina.

12. New Bern: Historic Elegance by the River

Situated along the banks of the Neuse River, New Bern is a city steeped in centuries of history and Southern elegance. The picturesque historic district features over 150 colonial and Victorian homes and buildings, providing a glimpse into New Bern’s past as the colonial capital of North Carolina and a prosperous port city.

Furthermore, a stroll along the riverwalk reveals stunning views, public art, and restaurants housed in old brick buildings. The Tryon Palace complex recreates the former governor’s mansion and surrounding structures. Between its charm, walkability, and array of shops and eateries, New Bern is a hidden gem among North Carolina cities.

13. Mooresville: Racing and Recreation

Known as “Race City USA,” Mooresville has earned its nickname as a hotspot for NASCAR racing and racing-related industries. Several elite teams are headquartered in Mooresville, and the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame highlights the sport’s history.

Besides, life here isn’t all about racing. Set on the shores of Lake Norman, Mooresville also provides residents access to boating, swimming, golfing, and other recreational fun. New housing developments, retail centers, and healthcare facilities round out Mooresville as one of the most attractive suburban communities near Charlotte.

14. Hickory: The Unassuming Gem

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Nestled in the Catawba Valley, Hickory is often overlooked but is an unassuming gem among North Carolina cities. Hickory provides residents with a strong sense of community, safe neighborhoods, excellent city services, and easily accessible outdoor recreation.

Subsequently, the walkable downtown features antique shops, restaurants, murals, and museums showcasing Hickory’s heritage in furniture, textiles, and NASCAR racing. Local parks offer hiking, biking, golf, and water fun at the lakefront Bond Park.

To boot, annual events like the Hickory Furniture Mart highlight the city’s history while attractions like the Hickory Motor Speedway embrace the need for speed. With reasonable home prices and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory delivers small-town charm combined with outdoor adventures.

15. Gastonia: Gateway to the Mountains

Perfectly positioned between Charlotte and Asheville, Gastonia serves as the ideal gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. Yet Gastonia also offers amenities that provide the best of both the urban and rural worlds.

Thus this historic mill town has transformed into a city with a vibrant downtown, charming parks, and cultural attractions like the Schiele Museum of Natural History. Locals enjoy the Goddard House, Highland Hosiery Mill, and other historic sites displaying Gastonia鈥檚 textile heritage.

Whether seeking outdoor escapes to Crowders Mountain State Park or NASCAR action at the Gastonia Motor Speedway, Gastonia鈥檚 location and community spirit create mountain charm near the city.

16. Kannapolis: Growing with a Vision

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Kannapolis has shed its mill-town identity through revitalization focused on connecting the community and spurring new growth. The North Carolina Research Campus has brought high-tech jobs and facilities, while renovated parks and downtown improvements have preserved Kannapolis鈥� history.

Locals enjoy weekly concerts at Village Park, recreation at Amusement Park Carousel, and minor league baseball with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. Excellent city planning and services, affordable living, and premier healthcare have positioned Kannapolis as a leading place to raise a family. Kannapolis embraces the future while celebrating its past.

17. Salisbury: Historic Elegance and Outdoor Adventures

Salisbury impresses visitors with its beautifully preserved historic district showcasing Victorian architecture and charming parks ideal for strolling. Beyond its walkable downtown, Salisbury offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. Dan Nicholas Park provides hiking, boating, fishing, and more, while High Rock Lake and other nearby waterways are perfect for watersports.

Moreover, cultural attractions range from the Rowan Museum to the Lee Street Theatre. With a family-friendly lifestyle, rich history, and natural adventures just out of town, Salisbury is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace like a true Southern city.

18. Statesville: Small-Town Charm with Big Possibilities

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Statesville captures small-town charm in North Carolina’s Piedmont region. Its revitalized downtown hosts community events like Fridays After 5 with live music and shopping local. Just outside town, Statesville offers country living with urban conveniences like top-rated health systems. Located along Interstate 77, residents enjoy easy access to Charlotte’s big city amenities.

Better still, outdoor recreation abounds with Lake Norman for boating and fishing and hiking trails in Cliffs Nature Preserve. Affordable neighborhoods, a quality school system, and a close-knit community make Statesville an ideal place to put down roots without sacrificing opportunities.

19. Rocky Mount: Gateway to Eastern North Carolina

Situated at the junction of major highways, Rocky Mount serves as the gateway to Eastern North Carolina. This historic city embraces its agricultural heritage through community gardens, farm-to-table cuisine, and festivals like the Sweet Potato Extravaganza.

Additionally, cultural attractions range from the Sunset Avenue African-American district to the Rocky Mount Arts Center. Outdoor escapades await nearby with hiking at Battle Park or boating at Lake Tarboro. With a low cost of living, the charm of small-town living, and easy access to Raleigh or the coast, Rocky Mount is the perfect launchpad to experience this region.

20. Concord: Racing and Entertainment Hub

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As home to the legendary Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord revels in racing and engines. But this city also excels at providing family-friendly entertainment like the Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park.

Furthermore, Concord Mills Mall delights shoppers with dining and retail, while downtown offers a quainter local setup with parks and eateries. Sports fans appreciate the Kannapolis Intimidators minor league baseball and Charlotte Knights AAA teams nearby. With a temperate climate, parks, and recreation centers, Concord entertains visitors and provides residents with an enjoyable quality of life.

North Carolina’s diverse cities offer something for everyone, from the bustling urban environment of Charlotte to the historic elegance of New Bern. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant cultural scene, outdoor adventures, or a peaceful suburban oasis, the best cities to live and visit in North Carolina provide a rich diversity of experiences. With its warm climate, welcoming communities, and stunning scenery, the Tar Heel State embodies Southern comfort at its finest.