Introduction
North Carolina‘s population has exploded in recent years, adding over 500,000 new residents since 2010. Drawn by mild weather, affordability and abundant jobs, transplants are flocking here from across the U.S. and around the world.
But behind the Southern hospitality and iconic barbecue, North Carolina has its own unique growing pains and adjustments in store for newcomers.
As a real estate investor who has called North Carolina home for 15+ years, I’ve learned firsthand – and from countless clients – that life in the Tar Heel state comes with lifestyle compromises and sometimes serious cases of buyer’s remorse after moving here.
From stifling humidity to political polarization to daily driving headaches, here are the top 12 regrets of relocating to North Carolina along with pro tips for avoiding disappointment.
1. Sparse Big City Energy and Amenities
Let’s start with the most common reaction from city slickers moving here: "Where‘s the electricity?"
Simply put, North Carolina is no New York City. Or Chicago. Or San Francisco.
Outside of the modest downtowns of Charlotte and Raleigh, the state distinctly lacks big city energy, diversity and conveniences that urbanites take for granted.
The data spells out precisely how much smaller NC cities feel:
| City | Population | Bars & Nightlife Venues | Museums & Entertainment | Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | 8,804,190 | Over 9,000 | 1,200+ | 26,000+ |
| Los Angeles | 3,971,883 | Over 5,400 | 300+ | 18,700+ |
| Charlotte | 592,938 | ~600 | 100 | 3,000+ |
| Raleigh | 474,069 | ~400 | 60 | 2,000+ |
The numbers speak for themselves – the nightlife, arts, culture, and dining scenes simply do not compare to America‘s great metropolises.
Over time, this limited selection results in new residents ultimately feeling bored, restless, and underwhelmed by their new NC surroundings. The state just feels sleepy after dark.
For die-hard city folk used to having vibrant amenities at their fingertips 24/7, North Carolina‘s slower place and lack of electricity will likely require a major lifestyle adjustment.
Pro Tip: Visit your target city for an extended trip before committing to a move to experience its true after-hours energy…or lack thereof.
2. Lack of Geographic and Climate Variety
Another common mistake? Not taking North Carolina‘s immense regional differences into account when relocating here.
With varied geography spanning from the Atlantic coastline to the Appalachian peaks, North Carolina lacks cohesion. Each area has own unique climate, culture, economy and terrain.
For example, those drawn to North Carolina for its 300 miles of beaches and sunny warmth would be sorely disappointed living instead in Boone or Asheville‘s colder, snowier mountain towns.
And outdoor lovers who crave hiking, biking or kayaking in the blue ridge wouldn‘t exactly enjoy the flat, humid terrain of the sandy coastal plains instead.
| Region | Terrain | Climate | Culture | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal Plain | Low, flat lands | Hot, humid summers; mild winters | Beach/coastal lifestyle | Tourism, military, fishing |
| Piedmont | Rolling foothills | 4 mild seasons; moderately humid | Suburban sprawl | Research, tech, banking |
| Blue Ridge Mountains | Rugged peaks | Cold, snowy winters; mild summers | Outdoorsy, artsy | Hospitals, universities |
Lesson learned: Carefully research not just your target town, but the surrounding regional climate, geography and economy to set accurate expectations before committing to any one NC location.
3. Soupy Summers with Oppressive Humidity
Speaking of climate, North Carolina‘s summertime humidity is no joke. From mid-May through September, expect long stretches of 90+ degree heat and utterly oppressive humidity levels.
You‘ll quickly learn what locals mean when they say, "Just walking to the car makes you break a sweat!". Step outside during peak summer and it literally feels like walking through hot soup.
| City | Avg High Temp | Avg Humidity | Days Above 90°F |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | 88°F | 65% | 81 days |
| Charlotte | 87°F | 63% | 69 days |
| Wilmington | 89°F | 74% | 103 days |
Coming from more arid western climates, this level of moisture content in the air will be an absolute shock. Simple tasks like walking the dog, grabbing mail, or enjoying coffee outdoors become draining ordeals when its both blazing hot AND extremely soggy out.
You‘ll find yourself dashing quickly between air conditioned sanctuaries while locals are seemingly able to still function normally outdoors in the dead of summer. Acclimating to the humidity is a years-long process. Fair warning!
Pro Tip: If you‘re considering a summer move, visit then instead of during the pleasant spring or fall seasons to experience NC humidity firsthand.
4. Severe Allergy Problems
For allergy sufferers, moving to North Carolina can be a blessing or a nightmare.
On the plus side, some newcomers report less congestion, respiratory issues, headaches and scratchy eyes compared to their previous hometown‘s pollen counts.
But for others, North Carolina‘s pine-forested terrain combined with humidity makes for brutal pollen seasons that stretch from February to November some years.
Previously allergy-free folks may find themselves investing in air purifiers, avoiding outdoors, stockpiling medications and more after moving here.
| City | Annual Pollen Rating (/12) | Worst Pollen Month |
|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | 9.5 | April |
| Charlotte | 8.5 | April |
| Asheville | 11 | July |
Don‘t stash away those Kleenex boxes just yet! For those prone to allergies or asthma, North Carolina can be downright miserable.
Pro Tip: Review annual allergy forecasts and plan visits in peak pollen months before committing to a certain NC location.
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