Are you currently living in California and considering relocating? If so, you’re not alone. More and more Californians are leaving the Golden State in search of a better quality of life, and North Carolina is becoming a top destination.
My family and I were in the same situation seven years ago when we started researching states with similar appeal but fewer drawbacks. Today, I’m excited to share the top 10 reasons why so many people—myself included—have left California for North Carolina and why we have never looked back!
1. Lower Cost of Living
California consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states to live in. Housing, gas, groceries, and even utilities are significantly higher than the national average.
In comparison, North Carolina’s cost of living is 35% lower overall, with housing prices being 42% lower than in major California cities. A simple cost calculator like BestPlaces.net can give you an exact breakdown.
For example, gas prices in California can be over $5 per gallon, while in North Carolina, they are typically much lower (at the time of writing this blog, it’s less than $3). That alone can save you hundreds of dollars per year!
2. More Affordable Housing
Owning a home in California has become nearly impossible for many, with the average home price exceeding $785,000.
Compare that to Raleigh, where the median home price is around $498,000—and even lower in surrounding suburbs. The lower property taxes and cost of homeownership in North Carolina make buying a home a reality for many families who could never afford one in California.
3. Less Traffic Congestion
If you’ve ever been stuck in Los Angeles traffic, you know the struggle. California’s gridlock is infamous, with daily commutes lasting 1-2 hours or more.
In Raleigh, most commutes take just 20-30 minutes, even in rush hour. The roads are improving, and while traffic has increased slightly over the years, it’s nowhere near California’s nightmare congestion.
4. Better Quality of Life
Between the high cost of living, increasing crime, and growing homelessness crisis, many Californians feel their overall quality of life is declining.
In contrast, Raleigh offers a balance of urban amenities with a relaxed Southern charm. It consistently ranks among the top cities for affordability, safety, and quality of life. Plus, with over 200 parks, 100 miles of greenways, and plenty of lakes, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities!
5. Strong Job Market & Growing Economy
While California remains a tech and entertainment hub, its job growth rate has slowed. Meanwhile, North Carolina is booming—especially in tech, healthcare, and research industries.
The Research Triangle Park (RTP) is home to over 375 companies, including Google, Apple, and Amazon, offering high-paying jobs and a lower cost of living. The biotech and pharmaceutical industry is also thriving, making North Carolina a global leader in life sciences.
6. Safer Cities with Lower Crime Rates
Crime rates in major California cities have been on the rise, making some residents feel unsafe. San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland are seeing increases in both property and violent crimes.
Meanwhile, Raleigh and its surrounding suburbs consistently rank as some of the safest cities in the U.S. Families can feel more secure, and communities have a strong sense of neighborly connection.
Moving to the Raleigh area?
7. A More Balanced Political Climate
California leans heavily liberal, and some residents who hold different political views feel out of place.
North Carolina is considered a purple state, with a mix of both conservative and liberal communities. While cities like Raleigh tend to be more progressive, surrounding suburbs and rural areas lean more conservative, offering more diversity in political perspectives.
If you’re curious about an area’s political landscape, a simple drive through neighborhoods (noticing flags and signs) can give you an idea of the community’s overall culture.
8. Lower Taxes
California has the highest state income tax in the country at 13.3%, in addition to high sales and gas taxes.
North Carolina, on the other hand, has:
✔ A flat 4.75% income tax rate
✔ A state sales tax of just 4.75% (with local taxes bringing it up to around 7.5%)
✔ Lower property taxes
For businesses and individuals alike, this means keeping more of your hard-earned money!
9. Fewer Natural Disasters
California is well-known for its earthquakes, wildfires, and mudslides—and the frequency of these disasters is only increasing. From severe droughts to massive wildfires that burn millions of acres each year, the state faces ongoing environmental challenges.
Insurance companies are even pulling out of California, making it harder for homeowners to protect their properties. In contrast, while North Carolina experiences some hurricanes and tornadoes, Raleigh and the Triangle area are inland, meaning they are far less impacted than coastal areas. While storms may bring heavy rain and wind, truly destructive hurricanes are rare.
Bonus Tip: A generator is a great investment for occasional power outages!
10. Lower Homelessness Rates
California is struggling with an unprecedented homelessness crisis, with over 30% of the entire U.S. homeless population residing there. Entire streets in major cities are lined with tents, affecting public safety and quality of life.
While homelessness does exist in North Carolina, it is far less visible and not nearly as severe as in California. Raleigh is proactive in providing resources and housing solutions, which keeps the issue more manageable.
So, Should You Move to North Carolina?
Ultimately, North Carolina offers many of the benefits of California—without the high cost, taxes, and overcrowding. From affordable housing to a strong job market and better quality of life, it’s no wonder so many people are making the move.
If you’re thinking about relocating, do your research, visit the area, and explore cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Cary to see if they’re the right fit for you!
Need Help Finding a Home?
At NC Triangle Connection, we specialize in fully furnished, short-to-mid-term rentals that can help make your transition smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a fresh start, we have comfortable, move-in-ready homes to make your relocation easier.
Visit NCTriangleConnection.com to explore available properties and start your new chapter in North Carolina!