Are you dreaming of a coastal beachfront home or an affordable, spacious mountain retreat? North Carolina offers many fantastic locations whether you're looking for seaside views or secluded forests. In this blog post, we'll take a look at 20 of the cheapest places to live in NC - estimated for 2023. Read on to find out where you can get more bang for your buck when it comes to making your dream NC home a reality!
| Rank | City | Median Income | Median Rent Price | Median Home Price | Average Property Tax | Average Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eden | $41,746 | $649 | $219,443 | $853 | -27.9 |
| 2 | Laurinburg | $35,776 | $674 | $215,335 | $796 | -29.9 |
| 3 | Lumberton | $38,514 | $665 | $222,575 | $685 | -28.5 |
| 4 | Rockingham | $33,351 | $552 | $215,844 | $732 | -25.4 |
| 5 | Roanoke Rapids | $43,704 | $680 | $236,579 | $870 | -26.8 |
| 6 | Tarboro | $41,281 | $681 | $219,943 | $827 | -26.8 |
| 7 | Henderson | $36,147 | $668 | $258,822 | $860 | -28.8 |
| 8 | Mount Airy | $33,773 | $594 | $274,796 | $780 | -24.9 |
| 9 | Reidsville | $34,221 | $668 | $268,803 | $853 | -21.9 |
| 10 | Asheboro | $40,571 | $685 | $252,111 | $826 | -21.3 |
| 11 | Washington | $38,843 | $730 | $232,900 | $702 | -20.7 |
| 12 | Thomasville | $44,063 | $707 | $273,582 | $855 | -20.6 |
| 13 | Lenoir | $42,411 | $622 | $324,573 | $774 | -19.7 |
| 14 | Kinston | $33,280 | $699 | $272,503 | $865 | -25.6 |
| 15 | Shelby | $41,565 | $684 | $301,971 | $858 | -20.3 |
| 16 | Hamlet | $30,000 | $495 | $106,615 | $500 | -30.0 |
| 17 | Fayetteville | $45,000 | $1,100 | $196,047 | $950 | -25.0 |
| 18 | Greenville | $38,000 | $899 | $217,258 | $800 | -22.0 |
| 19 | Burlington | $39,500 | $815 | $218,105 | $780 | -22.5 |
| 20 | Greensboro | $52,000 | $1,250 | $260,000 | $1,100 | -15.0 |
Eden
With a cost of living index of $41,746 and an average monthly rent of $649, Eden offers an affordable lifestyle for its residents. Despite its low cost of living, the city provides a range of amenities and services. Residents can enjoy the beauty of the Mayo River State Park or visit the Governor Morehead Park for recreational activities, all without breaking the bank.
Laurinburg
Laurinburg boasts a cost of living index of $35,776, making it an affordable place to reside. The average monthly rent is $674, allowing residents to find suitable housing options without straining their budgets. The city's affordability does not compromise its charm and community spirit, making it an attractive place to call home.
Lumberton
With a cost of living index of $38,514, Lumberton offers a reasonable cost of living compared to national averages. The average monthly rent is $665, providing residents with affordable housing options. Lumberton is also known for its Southern hospitality and is home to various local shops and eateries, allowing residents to experience a comfortable lifestyle without excessive expenses.
Rockingham
Rockingham's cost of living index is $33,351, which contributes to its affordability. With an average monthly rent of $552, residents can find reasonably priced accommodations. Despite its low cost of living, Rockingham offers attractions such as the Rockingham Speedway and the Discovery Place Kids Museum, allowing residents to enjoy recreational activities without straining their budgets.
Roanoke Rapids
Roanoke Rapids has a cost of living index of $43,704, providing residents with a comfortable lifestyle at an affordable price. The average monthly rent is $680, allowing individuals and families to find affordable housing options. The city also offers various parks, including the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, providing recreational opportunities for residents without incurring significant expenses.
Tarboro
Tarboro offers a cost of living index of $41,281, ensuring an affordable lifestyle for its residents. With an average monthly rent of $681, individuals can find affordable housing options within the city. Tarboro is also known for its historic district, featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and charming boutiques, allowing residents to enjoy the city's history and culture without straining their finances.
Henderson
Henderson provides a cost of living index of $36,147, ensuring a reasonable cost of living for its residents. With an average monthly rent of $668, individuals can find affordable housing options within the city. Henderson hosts the annual Kerr Lake Balloon Fest, a popular event that showcases hot air balloons, live music, and local vendors, providing affordable entertainment for residents.
Mount Airy
Mount Airy boasts a cost of living index of $33,773, making it an affordable place to live. The average monthly rent is $594, allowing residents to find suitable housing options without stretching their budgets. Mount Airy is famously known as the hometown of actor Andy Griffith, and visitors can explore the Andy Griffith Museum and take a tour of Mayberry sites, providing affordable and nostalgic entertainment.
Reidsville
Reidsville offers a cost of living index of $34,221, ensuring an affordable lifestyle for its residents. The average monthly rent is $668, providing individuals with reasonably priced housing options. Reidsville hosts the popular Penn House Arts & Crafts Festival, an annual event that features local artisans, live music, and delicious food, providing residents with affordable entertainment options.
Asheboro
Asheboro, North Carolina, offers a cost of living index of $40,571, making it an affordable place to call home. The average monthly rent is $685, providing residents with reasonably priced housing options. Asheboro is known for the North Carolina Zoo, one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world, offering affordable entertainment for residents. Additionally, the city boasts beautiful parks such as Bicentennial Park and the North Asheboro Park, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities without straining their budgets.
Washington
Washington, North Carolina, has a cost of living index of $38,843, ensuring a reasonable cost of living for its residents. The average monthly rent is $730, providing affordable housing options. This coastal city offers picturesque views of the Pamlico River and a charming downtown area filled with historic homes and shops. Residents can enjoy affordable outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and visiting the local waterfront parks.
Thomasville
With a cost of living index of $44,063, Thomasville provides an affordable lifestyle for its residents. The average monthly rent is $707, making housing options accessible. The city is famous for its furniture industry and hosts the biannual Thomasville Furniture Market, a renowned trade show. Residents can also explore the historic downtown district, featuring quaint shops and local eateries, allowing them to enjoy the city's charm without breaking the bank.
Lenoir
Lenoir offers a cost of living index of $42,411, ensuring residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at an affordable price. The average monthly rent is $622, making housing options affordable. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lenoir provides breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Pisgah National Forest. Residents can embrace an affordable and active lifestyle in this scenic city.
Kinston
Kinston boasts a cost of living index of $33,280, making it an affordable place to live. The average monthly rent is $699, allowing residents to find reasonably priced accommodations. Kinston is known for its rich history and Southern charm. The city offers attractions such as the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center and the Harmony Hall Historic Site. Residents can also enjoy the vibrant local food scene, with farm-to-table restaurants and affordable culinary experiences.
Shelby
Shelby provides a cost of living index of $41,565, ensuring residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without excessive expenses. The average monthly rent is $684, offering affordable housing options. Shelby is renowned for its annual Cleveland County Fair, a popular event featuring agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and thrilling rides. Residents can also explore attractions like the Earl Scruggs Center and enjoy outdoor activities at the beautiful Shelby City Park without straining their budgets.
Hamlet
Hamlet offers a cost of living index of $30,000, making it one of the most affordable cities on the list. The average monthly rent is $495, providing extremely affordable housing options. The city has a rich railroad history and is home to the Hamlet Depot & Museums, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage. Despite its lower cost of living, Hamlet's residents can enjoy affordable community events and recreational activities at local parks.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville, North Carolina, offers a cost of living index of $45,000, providing residents with a reasonable cost of living. The average monthly rent is $1,100, offering a range of housing options for different budgets. Fayetteville is home to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the world, contributing to the city's diverse and vibrant atmosphere. Residents can explore attractions like the Airborne & Special Operations Museum, which showcases the history of the U.S. Army's airborne and special operations forces. Fayetteville also boasts outdoor recreational opportunities, such as the Cape Fear River Trail, where residents can enjoy biking, walking, and jogging along the scenic riverfront.
Greenville
Greenville, North Carolina, provides a cost of living index of $38,000, ensuring an affordable lifestyle for its residents. The average monthly rent is $899, offering a variety of housing options at different price points. Greenville is known for being the home of East Carolina University, bringing a vibrant college-town atmosphere to the city. Residents can enjoy cultural experiences at the Greenville Museum of Art or attend sporting events at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The city also offers outdoor recreation opportunities at the Greenville Town Common, a waterfront park where residents can relax, picnic, and enjoy community events.
Burlington
With a cost of living index of $39,500, Burlington, North Carolina, provides an affordable lifestyle for its residents. The average monthly rent is $815, offering accessible housing options. The city is known for its historic downtown district, featuring charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Residents can explore attractions like the Alamance Battleground, a significant Revolutionary War site, or enjoy outdoor activities at the beautiful Lake Mackintosh Park and Marina. Burlington also hosts events such as the Carousel Festival, showcasing live music, arts and crafts, and carousel rides for the entire family to enjoy.
Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina, offers a cost of living index of $52,000, providing residents with a comfortable yet affordable lifestyle. The average monthly rent is $1,250, offering various housing options to suit different budgets. Greensboro is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving arts scene. Residents can explore attractions such as the Greensboro Science Center, which features an aquarium, a zoo, and a museum. The city also hosts events like the National Folk Festival and the Greensboro Food Truck Festival, offering residents affordable and enjoyable experiences. Greensboro's numerous parks and gardens provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an attractive place to live for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cities mentioned in the provided data offer a range of cost of living options, providing residents with affordable lifestyles. Each city has its unique attractions and activities that contribute to their distinct character. From the historic downtown district of Burlington to the military presence in Fayetteville, and the college-town atmosphere of Greenville, there is something for everyone.
These cities offer various opportunities for entertainment, including museums, festivals, and outdoor recreational areas. Residents can explore the rich history and cultural heritage of these cities while enjoying affordable attractions and events.
Moreover, the affordable housing options in these cities make them appealing to individuals and families looking for a cost-effective place to live. The average monthly rents in these cities are relatively reasonable, allowing residents to find suitable accommodations within their budget.
Whether it's visiting the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, exploring the charming waterfront of Washington, or attending the biannual Thomasville Furniture Market, these cities provide unique experiences while keeping the cost of living in check.
In summary, the mentioned cities offer a balance between affordability and quality of life, making them attractive destinations for those seeking a lower cost of living without compromising on amenities, attractions, and community events.
