We moved here too.Let's make yours easy.
Rich is a Jersey guy who also lived in Chicago. We know the questions you're asking because we asked them too. Pick where you're moving from and we'll show you what changes.
By Rich Burghgraef, Broker + Team Leader·Updated November 2026
Where are you coming from?
New York + New Jersey
Same hustle. A lot more house.
See the move
Chicago
Trade the wind chill for a front porch.
See the move
DC + Northern Virginia
Keep the career. Lose the Beltway.
See the move
Miami + South Florida
Four real seasons. Still close to the beach.
See the move
San Francisco + the Bay Area
Same tech energy. Very different price tag.
See the move
Philadelphia + Pennsylvania
Keep the cheesesteak loyalty. Upgrade the weather.
See the move
Denver + Colorado
Trade altitude for easy living.
See the moveComing from somewhere else? Start with the Town Matchmaker or just tell us.
Tell us where you're coming from.
We'll send a custom short list of towns that fit, what homes really cost there right now, and a plan for house hunting from a distance. Free, and nobody will pressure you.
What everyone asks before the move.
What are the best places to live in the Raleigh-Durham area?
It depends on what you want. Cary and Apex are popular with families, Durham and downtown Raleigh with people who want food and culture, Holly Springs and Wake Forest for a small-town feel with newer homes, and Chapel Hill for a college town. Our Town Matchmaker narrows it down in about a minute.
Why are so many people moving to North Carolina?
Common reasons include a strong job market around Research Triangle Park, a lower cost of living than many big metros, mild winters, good universities, and easy access to both the beach and the mountains.
Can you help me buy a home before I move?
Yes. A big part of what we do is helping people buy from out of state with video tours, a custom town short list and a plan for where to stay while you look.
What is the income tax rate in North Carolina?
North Carolina has a flat individual income tax of 3.99% for 2026, scheduled to drop to 3.49% in 2027. Talk to a tax professional about your situation.