8 Reasons Why Raleigh Is One of the Fastest-Growing Cities in the U.S.
Named the second-fastest-growing metro in the country, Raleigh is becoming one of the top destinations for residential and commercial relocations.
Over the past decade, Raleigh has gained more than 260,000 residents, nearly tripling the national growth rate according to Carolina Demography. As the area has boomed, it’s continued to receive national recognition for its high quality of life. U.S. News & World Report recently placed Raleigh at No. 2 on its list of the 2021 Best Places to Live, and Men’s Health named Raleigh the third-happiest city in America.
Raleigh’s growth is far from over. In the next 15 years, the region expects to expand by another 125,000 residents. Check out these eight reasons why families and individuals are eager to move to Raleigh.
1. Top-Performing Economy
The Raleigh-Cary region has one of the best-performing economies in the country. Known for its growing technology and start-up scene, Raleigh has attracted major employers like Apple and Google. The News & Observer reported that nearly 40 new businesses were opening and expanding in downtown Raleigh as of the second quarter of 2021, increasing its already-robust job market. Raleigh also has plenty of entry-level positions and high starting salaries, making it a perfect place for those starting their careers.
2. Accessible Transportation
Raleigh is easily accessible by plane, train, car, bus, bike or foot. The Raleigh-Durham International Airport serves nearly 50 nonstop destinations, and a new Amtrak station has connected the downtown area even more to the rest of the country. The city currently runs more than 30 bus routes, but at least 20 more miles of routes are in the works. If biking around is more your style, Raleigh’s 105 miles of bike lanes can more than accommodate your daily commute.
3. Satisfaction with Government Services
The local Raleigh government recently received a “Leading the Way Award,” given by the ETC Institute in recognition of exceptional service to residents. Compared to other communities in the U.S., the ETC Institute found that Raleigh residents were more satisfied with the quality and customer service they received by the governmental sector. Residents also said they received more value for their taxes and fees than residents of other areas.
4. Hot Residential Market
Raleigh currently has one of the most sought-after housing markets in the country. The number of housing units in downtown Raleigh has more than tripled over the past two decades, but the area has still maintained a high 96-percent residential occupancy rate. Despite the demand, locals experience relatively low property taxes and more affordable housing costs than other top relocation destinations. Cutting-edge development presents exciting new residential opportunities for individuals and families alike.
5. Expansive Green Space
Raleigh is a haven for anyone itching to get outside easily and often. Nicknamed the “City of Oaks” for the trees lining the city, Raleigh presents a beautiful backdrop for its residents. Within two miles of downtown, locals can access nearly 800 acres of green space, and a short two-hour drive allows access to the Carolina and Wrightsville Beaches. Many of North Carolina’s most beloved outdoor destinations, such as the Outer Banks region made famous by Netflix, are only a day trip away.
6. Award-Winning Dining
When it comes to food, Raleigh’s dining has something for everyone. There are over 150 dining establishments in the downtown area offering a wide range of cuisines, many of which boast national honors. In 2020, five Raleigh chefs and restaurants received nods at the prestigious James Beard Awards for culinary achievements. Raleigh was also named one of the best beer destinations in the world by VinePair because of its award-winning craft breweries.
7. Growing Art Scene
The Raleigh region has a vibrant art scene, averaging 98 pieces of public art per square mile in the downtown area. Boasting more than 65 art galleries, museums and entertainment venues, the city has become an increasingly attractive tourist destination for its art and music. Every September, more than 60,000 flock to Raleigh for the Hopscotch Music Festival, which has been growing in popularity over the past decade.
8. Leading Education
Raleigh offers competitive public and private schooling opportunities for every age. Eleven universities sit within the city’s limits, and the prestigious Duke University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are less than an hour’s drive away. The city continues to attract highly-educated individuals, as more than 60 percent of the local population possesses at least a bachelor’s degree.
Thinking about moving to Raleigh? Armstrong is here to help. Our full-service packing, moving and installation services will start your Raleigh relocation off on the right foot. Get started today by calling our experts at 919.425.9853 or requesting a free quote online.
