News & Media

NC and SC Home to “Most Desirable” Places in the US

By David Purtell – Digital Editor, Triangle Business Journal

The Carolinas are in high demand for people looking to relocate.

North Carolina has 11 of the most desirable counties in the U.S. and nine of the 50 most sought-after cities, according to a new study from U.S. News and World Report that analyzed online search data. South Carolina has six of the most desirable counties, with seven top cities.

North Carolina ranks fourth overall among the states, and South Carolina is No. 1.

Four counties in the Charlotte metro made the list, with Gaston coming in at No. 10, York at No. 17, Union at No. 39 and Iredell at No. 50. Among cities and towns, Rock Hill and Huntersville landed in the top 50 — at No. 22 and No. 45, respectively.

The growth hotbed of Brunswick County on the coast ranks No. 1 overall for counties, and North Carolina had more counties in the top 50 than any other state, with Florida second at eight.

The sites dot the map across the state — from Asheville to Wilmington — showing just how attractive North Carolina has become given its vibrant economy, high quality of living, and great blend of urban vibes and outdoor experiences.

Conway, South Carolina, ranks as the No. 1. city, with Myrtle Beach at No. 3. Florida has the most cities in the top 50 with 11, with North Carolina second at nine.

The Southeast has five states in the top 10 and nine in the top 2020. In addition, a whopping 45 of the top 50 counties in terms of online searches are in the South, making it the most desirable area of the U.S.

“The Southern region of the U.S. has by far the most sought-after relocation destinations in our research. Mild temperatures, coastal living and year-round outdoor activities are likely driving this interest, though lower costs of living, with more affordable housing, may also factor into this,” the report stated.

NC and SC counties in Top 50

  • No. 1 Brunswick
  • No. 2 Horry (SC)
  • No. 7 Catawba
  • No. 8 Greenville (SC)
  • No. 9 Dorchester (SC)
  • No. 10 Gaston
  • No. 14 Johnston
  • No. 16 Beaufort (SC)
  • No. 17 York (SC)
  • No. 24 New Hanover
  • No. 27 Henderson
  • No. 35 Spartanburg (SC)
  • No. 36 Wake
  • No. 39 Union
  • No. 44 Alamance
  • No. 48 Buncombe
  • No. 50 Iredell

Read the full story here.