North Carolina’s population growth in the past year has been impressive, adding 133,088 new residents, according to Census data. Recent relocators have cited job opportunities and a more affordable lifestyle as reasons for their move. While speaking to some of the people who have moved to North Carolina recently, five of them highlighted what they like and dislike about living in the state. Tara Theden-Hart, a semi-retired real estate agent, moved to Salisbury, North Carolina, from California because of its hands-off government and lush scenery. She noted the lack of diversity in food in North Carolina, but highlighted the beauty of the houses and the history associated with them. Rochelle Woodruff, who made the cross-country move from California to North Carolina, appreciated the natural beauty of the state and the forgiving winters that allow her to engage in more outdoor activities than she would have in the UK. Meanwhile, Alexandra Shaw loved the nature of North Carolina and settled in the Raleigh suburb of Cary in 2022. She noted the community’s growth and diversity, which made her feel part of a community for the first time in her adult life. Another relocating Ohio man, John Yuschak, moved to North Carolina twice, buying a three-bedroom, 2,700-square-foot home in a small town about 30 miles from Raleigh and settling there for the past five years. He found Raleigh to be a better choice than Charlotte and noted the tech sector’s forgiveness in the area. Lastly, Cielo De Jose and William Scott moved from California to Charlotte, only to realize that the cost of living in North Carolina was not as low as it seemed, such as the rising rent or real estate prices.