Have you ever desired to move to the Carolinas? Sometimes you’re ready to relocate to a new city, and other times you’re not. There are numerous factors to consider when deciding where you want to live for the next ten years or whether a cross-country job offer is worth uprooting your life. North Carolina has three distinct geographical features: mountains, coastal plains, and Piedmont. South Carolina has a plethora of charming towns and villages to explore. With the two different states, there is a wide range of differences in comparing North Carolina vs South Carolina. Check out the best places to live in the Carolinas.

1. Greensboro

This city is home to five colleges and a thriving art scene located in North Carolina. And it’s the third-largest city in the state, with a population of just under 300,000 people. Located in the state’s north-central region, this city is well-positioned, with a 2.5-hour drive to the Blue Ridge Mountains and a 3-hour drive to the coast. The city also boasts of its green initiatives, with miles of trails and greenways built for the active individual. Because of its central location, this city is an excellent choice for those who can’t decide between the two.

2. Five Forks

South Carolina has this city to offer. Five Forks is located in Greenville County, just a short drive from downtown Greenville. There’s a lot to be said for an outcrop town like this; with a population of 16,398 people, it has everything you could want in a home. This is a relatively prosperous area compared to the rest of the country. The median annual household income is $115,050. With that in mind, the median home value of $264,200 is not a significant concern; the community here is doing quite well. Locals quickly point out how the steady influx of jobs in the area keeps the local economy and people thriving.

3. Mount Pleasant

There appears to be a Mount Pleasant somewhere in the world, but South Carolina’s Mount Pleasant is arguably the most pleasant. There are countless opportunities to get outdoors and explore South Carolina’s versatile landscapes within easy reach of the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. Being so adjacent to such spectacular scenery comes at a price. The cost of living here is quite steep compared to the rest of the county. The average household income of $77,639 is significantly lower than the median home value of $372,000. This would imply that, while Mount Pleasant may appear a little exclusive at first glance, if you play your cards right and invest wisely; this could be your next home.

4. Charlotte

The Queens City. Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city has a population of 857,425. And the offerings of the big city certainly match its population. You’ll never be bored living in this city, with everything from expansive shopping options to unique clubs and bars and everything in between. Charlotte and its surrounding metropolitan area have more than 40 colleges and universities to choose from, but it is fine with college students. The population is diverse, ranging from young professionals to working adults; the city is ideal for those looking to enter the workforce. Charlotte’s affordability in comparison to what the city offers in terms of value is simply unrivaled. It’s one of the main reasons, so many people love living in Charlotte, where they can find a perfect home for their family while knowing they can afford it. Prepare to be wowed by sports if you choose to make Charlotte your North Carolina home. You can enjoy the NFL by watching the Carolina Panthers or the NBA by watching the Hornets. If soccer is more your thing, Charlotte now has Charlotte FC, the state’s first professional soccer team.

Conclusion

There are several factors to look into when it comes to North Carolina vs. South Carolina when deciding where to live. When deciding on where to live, you should have elements including the availability of job opportunities and the quality of life a state has to offer.