Fastest Growing Cities in North Carolina

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Ryan Fitzgerald Ryan Fitzgerald
Nov 7, 2023 10 min read
Fastest Growing Cities in North Carolina
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Fastest Growing Cities in North Carolina

Are you intersted in moving to North Carolina and want to know what the fastest-growing cities are here? Keep reading to learn more about these on the rise cities in North Carolina. 

North Carolina is a state that has something for everyone. From skiing to surfing to hiking, this state has an assortment of things to offer its residents. With many thriving cities from the coast to the mountains, each one has its own unique qualities and high rankings, making them great places to live. 

Depending on the location, each of these cities has their own unique qualities and pros and cons. Despite their size, these locations are on the rise and are some of the most popular places to relocate to in North Carolina, whether it is to retire, find work, or settle down in. 

Do not miss out on the beauty and history that this state holds. If you are interested in moving to North Carolina for retirement or raising a family, check out the beautiful homes for sale here and these fast-growing cities throughout the state

Here are the ten fastest-growing cities in North Carolina. 

1. Apex

Apex is one of the area's fastest-growing communities while retaining its small-town feel. It is a town located in Wake County and is considered a smaller suburb of Raleigh, with a population of about 63,000 residents. Apex is known as "the peak of good living" due to its small-town charm and community spirit.

If you're interested in living near the heart of the state while also preferring a smaller town that is on the rise, Apex may be the perfect choice for you. The growth in this area is consistently increasing, and this charming town continues to attract people from all over. It's a tight-knit and inviting community that's on the rise.

If you want to move to Apex, check out the best neighborhoods in the town to find the perfect area for you.

View from Suburb in Raleigh NC

2. Waxhaw

Waxhaw is a suburb within the Charlotte area with a population of about 23,590 residents. This may be the 44th biggest city in North Carolina, but it has a steady growth rate of about 4% annually. Waxhaw has kept its history and charm throughout the historic district area while growing. 

As the city grows, Waxhaw has served expansion to the residents while keeping the local jobs, safeness, and unique history throughout. Some of the main reasons why people are moving to this western city is because of the small town feel, good schools, and safe neighborhoods. 

If you are intersted in moving to a small town that is on the rise rapidly, then looking at the available real estate in Waxhaw may be perfect for you. Check out the homes available now since this is a sought-after area. 

3. Fuquay-Varina

Fuquay-Varina is one of the best places to live in Wake County and is known for its beautiful homes and many things to do. This city is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in North Carolina and the Triangle area. 

Known as the Triangle, best secret, this city has a growing population of about 36,700 residents and has almost doubled over the past ten years. The new construction and rise of the population make this Raleigh suburb a place for people to relocate to. 

Fuquay is a safe place to live that offers affordable real estate, as well as many things to do. Many people are relocating to this city because of the overflow of people moving to Raleigh, but Fuquay-Varina does have its own unique qualities

So, if you are intersted in moving to an affordable and thriving area, then looking at the available real estate in Fuquay Varina may be perfect for you. 

4. Leland

Leland is a thriving community that is located just minutes outside downtown Wilmington. This city is also one of the fastest-growing towns in the state due to its business expansion. With a beautiful suburban-type feel and many natural amenities, this place is a popular area to move to for young families, retirees, and people searching for employment. 

This town has had consistent growth for years and is one of the largest municipalities in Brunswick County. Leland is growing at a rate of 4% annually while also having affordable housing. 

With some of the best communities and neighborhoods in the area, there is constant growth and development throughout, which gives the residents many amenities as well as many things to choose from. 

If you are considering living near the coast and want to still be in a small town, moving to Leland may be the best opportunity for you because this town is only on the rise. 

Brunswick County Bridge NC

5. Holly Springs

Holly Springs is one of the best places to live in North Carolina. With a population of about 43,500 residents, this city has grown about 6% annually. Just 20 minutes outside the State's Capital, this city is a sought-after destination to relocate to. 

Homes available here are new and affordable, while each neighborhood offers its own unique styles. With plentiful jobs and opportunities here, this city is a population place for families and people searching for career opportunities. 

There are many reasons why people are moving to Holly Springs. Whether it is for the affordability, beautiful weather, central location, low crime, or family-friendly things to do, this place has something for everyone. It is a perfect place to find your forever home

If you are intersted in moving to Holly Springs, you should check out the gorgeous homes here to help find the perfect home that fits all of your needs before they are gone. 

6. Clayton

Clayton is one of the best places to relocate to in the state, as well as the #1 best place to live in Johnson County. Due to its location outside Raleigh, Clayton offers residents a slight suburban feel and close access to the busy city life at the state's capital. 

Since this area has a high quality of life and many opposites, many people are looking to move to Clayton since it is a place for everyone. This town is growing fast and is still one of the safest places to raise a family. 

This town prides itself on its businesses, economic development, and education. With the booming and evolving economy, this area is a perfect place to move to if you are searching for career opporintites as well as a thriving economy. 

A beautiful place to retire and live, Clayton is a perfect location to relocate to due to the excellent potential for growth here. If you are interested in moving to North Carolina and want to be near it all but still have a quiet and peaceful environment, you should check out available real estate in Clayton. 

7. Cary

Cary is a city that is a top-rated destination with excellent schools, weather, and amenities. There are many reasons why people are relocating here, especially since it's one of the best places to raise a family

The city of Cary has tripled in size in the last 20 years and continues to grow since it attracts families, young professionals, and retirees. With many things to do, this city has something for everyone, as well as a friendly and welcoming community. 

Yates Mill Cary NC

If you are moving somewhere new and need to find a job, Cary has endless opportunities and is ranked as one of the best places for jobs in the United States due to its close proximity to the Raleigh area. With a focus on technology, health care, and education, this city has many things that attract people to the site. 

With many high rankings, Cary is a great place to move to and is one of the best suburbs outside Raleigh that is mainly sought after. So, if you are interested in moving to this area, you should check out the beautiful homes in Cary

8. Kannapolis

Kannapolis is a charming city located northeast of Charlotte, offering a unique blend of history, beautiful homes for sale, and various things to do.

This area is also the center of education and science and is home to many thriving schools and industries. With the flourishing history here, houses have their own unique beauty, which is one of the main reasons why people love this town.

With its tree-lined streets and unique homes, Kannapolis is a beautiful destination in North Carolina. This welcoming city is emerging and growing yet still maintains low housing costs, a low cost of living, and pleasant weather.

If you're looking for a city with a rich history and southern charm, consider moving to Kannapolis.

Downtown Charlotte NC View at Night

9. Concord

Concord has a population of about 11,000 residents and is ranked as the 10th largest city in North Carolina. From a thriving job market to various housing options and excellent healthcare, this area has so much to offer its residents. 

Concord boasts a robust and diverse economy, which makes it a trendy destination for people who are searching for career opportunities. As well as thriving businesses, this is also an ideal area to start a business as well as the city offers many resources and incentives. 

Many people are moving to this area due to affordable living and low living expenses. The housing expenses are 21% lower than the national average, making living comfortably here easy while still living near it all. 

Concord is an excellent option if you are searching for a place to live near the Charlotte area. With a renowned strong community, this city has a close-knit and active community, making it easy to feel at home. Check out the available real estate here to jump-start the homebuying process. 

10. Burlington

Burlington is a thriving city with a vibrant and rich history as well as a promising future due to the significant growth this place has been experiencing. Located in the heart of North Carolina, this place is a popular destination for people looking for affordable living and a high quality of life. 

This welcoming community has so much to offer its residents and local businesses, which is a big reason why Burlington is thriving. A short drive from the Triangle, this city is on the rise and has much to offer its community. 

From a booming job market and excellent education, Burlington is a great place to move to for young adults and families. No matter what you are searching for, Burlington has it or is in close proximity to it. So, if you are interested in living in the middle of it all, check out homes in Burlington. 

FAQS

What is the fastest-growing county in North Carolina?

Brunswick County is one of the fastest-growing countries in NC. This area has seen a widespread increase of 27% over the past ten years and is projected to continue to grow rapidly in the future. 

Is North Carolina up and coming?

Due to the beautiful beaches on the coast and the natural beauty in the mountains, this state has gained much recognition for its thriving economy, growing population, and natural beauty. 

Why is North Carolina growing so fast?

North Carolina is growing so fast because of the economic opportunities, natural beauty, and high quality of life, making it an ideal place to live. 

Street view outside downtown NC with homes and flag

Fastest Growing Cities in North Carolina - The Bottom Line

Many thriving cities across the state, from the coast to the mountains, have their unique qualities and are ranked highly, making them great places to live. North Carolina offers a variety of options for its residents to choose from and is known to be a great place to live. 

Depending on the location, each of these cities has its unique qualities. Despite their size, they are on the rise and are some of the most popular places to relocate to in North Carolina, whether for retirement, work, or settling down.

If you are considering a move to North Carolina, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit our website. Our team at Raleigh Realty is here to connect you with a local agent to help you with the homebuying process. 

Ryan Fitzgerald
Written by
Ryan Fitzgerald
Realtor

Hi there! Nice to 'meet' you and thanks for visiting our Raleigh Real Estate Blog! My name is Ryan Fitzgerald, and I'm a REALTOR® in Raleigh-Durham, NC, the owner of Raleigh Realty. I work alongside some of the best Realtors in Raleigh. You can find more of my real estate content on Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News and more. Realtor Magazine named me a top 30 under 30 Realtor in the country (it was a long time ago haha). Any way, that's enough about me. I'd love to learn more about you if you'd like to connect with me on Facebook and Instagram or connect with our team at Raleigh Realty. Looking forward to connecting!

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