Moving from Florida to the Tar Heel State
North Carolina is the 28 largest state in the US. With 10.27 million people living on its territory, it is also the 9th most populous. Often called the Tar Heel state, North Carolina is divided into 100 counties and is home to Research Triangle Park, the largest research park in the US.
During the recent years, a lot of people have been choosing North Carolina for its breathtaking natural landscapes and the booming business sector. The motto of NC is “Esse cam videri” which translates to “To be, rather than to seem.”
Due to their geographic location, both Florida and North Carolina have mainly the same weather, falling in the humid subtropical climate zone with high humidity. In this aspect, you will not have to adapt to climate change once you relocate to North Carolina unless you move to the mountains region which has a subtropical highland climate. Throughout the year, you will be able to experience the four seasons, but be prepared for hurricanes as well, though not as many as Florida gets.
Economic growth and employment
Between the year 2013 and 2016, North Carolina saw the fastest economic growth rate in the country. One of the key players in the economy of the state is the higher education. As mentioned above, the state is home to the largest research “Triangle Park” made of the North Carolina State University, Duke University, and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill which form a tech hub triangle. The UNC Chapel Hill is one of the largest employers in the entire state.
Among other top employers are companies like SAS Institute, IBM, Lowe’s Companies, Smithfield Foods, to name a few. With a diverse economy, you shouldn’t have trouble finding a well-paying job in industrial machinery and equipment, agriculture, food products, information technology, education, and healthcare.
Housing and living costs
In general, North Carolina is less expensive than Florida. If we compare Raleigh to Fort Lauderdale, Raleigh is 15% cheaper, with the housing 26% less expensive than in Fort Lauderdale.
An average housing price in North Carolina is $175,600, but depending on where in the state you are moving, you can find a one-bedroom home for around $108,000, or a two-bedroom home with an average price of $120,000. If you are planning to rent instead of buying, rental prices in North Carolina are below the national average.
One studio apartment costs less than $1000 per month, while a two-bedroom can cost about $1,120 per month. Depending on where in NC you will relocate, your cost of living will vary.
Things to do in North Carolina
Thanks to its great weather almost all-year round, there will be plenty of things for you to do and see once you move to NC. It doesn’t matter if you are a beach person or prefer the mountains. North Carolina is a perfect state for both, and everyone can have the time of their lives wherever they prefer the most.
With its beautiful Atlantic Coast, the Appalachian Mountains and Piedmont Region, the state offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, barbecuing, surfing, biking, kayaking, rafting, and rock climbing. North Carolina is also well known for its must-visit waterfalls, the Biltmore Estate, and the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway.
Moving to North Carolina with a car
When you move to North Carolina with a car you will need to replace your out-of-state driver’s license as well as register your car within 30 days after you establish your residency. As a new resident, you won’t have to get your car inspected the first time you register it, but you will have to get it inspected when you renew your registration. In order to register your car you will need to apply for your driver’s license first, and then submit the required documents to your local DMV office.