5. Greenville
Greenville is another one of those not-too-small-but-not-too-big towns in the state, with a population of just under 90,000. Although the cost of living is more than the national average, the cost of buying a home is less than the national average, with the average price of a home in September 2023 coming in at $305,000. The crime rate in Greenville is below average, and there are seven of the state's best hospitals within a 25-mile drive.
6. Jacksonville
If the Atlantic coastline calls to you, Jacksonville is the place to be. The medium-sized community of about 70,000 people is not directly on the beach, but it's incredibly close to it and also boasts a low crime rate and super-attractive real estate prices. Although the cost of living is above the national average, the average home price in October 2023 was $199,500. There are only three of the best hospitals in North Carolina within 25 miles, but healthcare access is still acceptable if you don't need very specialized care close by.
7. Kannapolis
Kannapolis is the smallest town on this list, with a population of just 45,000. If you've been longing for that small-town feel, this is it. Located about 25 miles outside of Charlotte, Kannapolis is a quiet retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. The cost of living and the crime rate are well below the national average, and the cost of real estate makes it a great place to settle in for retirement. The average home price in October 2023 in Kannapolis was just $305,000. There are 13 of the top North Carolina hospitals within 25 miles.
8. Raleigh
Although Raleigh isn't the cheapest place to live in North Carolina, you get a lively metro area full of innovation and some of the brightest medical minds in the country since it's only 16 miles from the famous Research Triangle. The city boasts a population of 439,000 and a low crime rate, but the cost of living is above average. In October 2023, the average home sales price was $415,000. You've also got 25 of the best hospitals in the state within 25 miles of the city.
9. Wilson
Wilson is the only real town in Wilson County and boasts a population of less than 50,000. If you're looking for the quiet countryside, this could be the place for you. The cost of living is above average, but the crime rate in Wilson is low, as is the cost of real estate. In October 2023, the average home sales price was $250,000. It's just 65 miles from the Research Triangle but it only has six of the best hospitals in the state within 25 miles.
