Cheapest Places to Live in North Carolina

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

North Carolina, with its scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history, offers a diverse range of living experiences. Landmarks such as the Biltmore Estate, the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and the Great Smoky Mountains highlight the state's attractions. The state's economy is robust and diverse, driven by sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare. North Carolina's tax structure includes moderate income and property taxes, which contribute to its overall affordability. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, North Carolina remains one of the more affordable states in the southeastern region, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a diverse economy and manageable living costs makes North Carolina an attractive place for those seeking affordability and quality of life.

Affordable living in North Carolina can often be found in smaller towns and suburban areas where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These regions provide a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for maintaining financial stability. Affordability is a crucial factor in livability, as it allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in North Carolina include lower housing demand in less populated areas, supportive local economic policies, and efficient public services. Utilizing C2ER's cost of living data helps to identify these affordable regions, ensuring that potential residents can make informed decisions. In a state known for its natural beauty and economic opportunities, finding affordable living options enhances the overall living experience.

Eden Population: 15,455 13% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $155,307 Med. Rent: $970 Med. Household Inc.: $58,507

With a cost of living index that is 13% cheaper than the state average, Eden is the cheapest place to live in North Carolina. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, Eden provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Henderson Population: 15,653 11% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $162,183 Med. Rent: $1,026 Med. Household Inc.: $46,586

The second most affordable city in North Carolina is Henderson and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the North Carolina average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Williamston Population: 5,441 11% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $156,548 Med. Rent: $1,154 Med. Household Inc.: $54,106

Williamston lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in North Carolina, with a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Kinston Population: 20,770 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $179,166 Med. Rent: $1,062 Med. Household Inc.: $48,744

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Kinston offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Hamlet Population: 6,555 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $158,427 Med. Rent: $831 Med. Household Inc.: $55,290

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Hamlet is ideal, with a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the North Carolina average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Roxboro Population: 8,517 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $145,987 Med. Rent: $1,097 Med. Household Inc.: $49,667

Roxboro comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in North Carolina and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than North Carolina. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Erwin Population: 5,237 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $166,487 Med. Rent: $1,262 Med. Household Inc.: $63,081

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Erwin is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Lumberton Population: 21,466 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $193,446 Med. Rent: $986 Med. Household Inc.: $55,898

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Lumberton fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than North Carolina.

Whiteville Population: 5,538 10% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $192,706 Med. Rent: $997 Med. Household Inc.: $46,897

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Whiteville is one of the most affordable cities in North Carolina, and has a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than the state average.

Forest City Population: 7,385 9% cheaper than North Carolina average

Med. Home Value: $197,437 Med. Rent: $980 Med. Household Inc.: $44,240

With a cost of living that is 9% cheaper than North Carolina, Forest City comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in North Carolina. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in North Carolina

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	Eden	15,455	83	$155,307	$58,507
2	Henderson	15,653	85	$162,183	$46,586
3	Williamston	5,441	85	$156,548	$54,106
4	Kinston	20,770	86	$179,166	$48,744
5	Hamlet	6,555	86	$158,427	$55,290
6	Roxboro	8,517	86	$145,987	$49,667
7	Erwin	5,237	87	$166,487	$63,081
8	Lumberton	21,466	87	$193,446	$55,898
9	Whiteville	5,538	87	$192,706	$46,897
10	Forest City	7,385	87	$197,437	$44,240
11	Roanoke Rapids	14,926	87	$192,981	$57,237
12	Thomasville	27,805	87	$211,441	$62,983
13	Reidsville	14,401	87	$191,704	$53,266
14	Selma	7,159	87	$201,417	$34,341
15	Mount Airy	10,467	88	$236,147	$44,546
16	Wadesboro	5,482	88	$146,355	$37,081
17	Lexington	19,386	88	$185,978	$45,150
18	Rockingham	8,949	88	$182,154	$52,759
19	Lenoir	18,535	88	$202,593	$58,956
20	Rocky Mount	56,346	88	$197,272	$63,503
21	Ayden	5,290	88	$225,320	$79,177
22	Spring Lake	12,346	89	$172,291	$58,666
23	Long View	5,063	89	$188,252	$58,561
24	Laurinburg	15,444	89	$187,037	$44,308
25	Raeford	5,115	89	$233,039	$51,209
26	Shelby	20,722	89	$232,594	$58,938
27	Asheboro	26,430	89	$219,834	$54,660
28	Marion	8,099	89	$170,773	$62,280
29	Tarboro	11,145	90	$237,209	$61,079
30	Sawmills	5,379	90	$204,655	$83,064
31	Dunn	10,073	90	$239,863	$50,920
32	Smithfield	13,082	90	$254,803	$50,035
33	Clinton	8,770	90	$249,743	$49,857
34	Siler City	8,418	91	$221,604	$58,857
35	Walkertown	5,289	91	$257,592	$72,859
36	Goldsboro	35,716	91	$241,359	$55,222
37	Albemarle	16,433	91	$231,171	$65,149
38	Washington	9,766	91	$259,832	$55,586
39	St. Stephens	9,613	91	$239,122	$78,443
40	Bessemer City	5,750	92	$203,111	$57,721
41	Archdale	12,179	92	$249,521	$83,241
42	Wilson	50,769	92	$257,635	$63,882
43	Newton	13,417	92	$214,331	$75,283
44	Winston-Salem	255,400	92	$268,440	$70,222
45	Zebulon	5,916	92	$257,777	$58,639
46	James City	5,489	92	$251,400	$91,543
47	Mocksville	5,346	92	$264,567	$67,795
48	Burlington	56,679	93	$251,112	$67,164
49	Hope Mills	16,493	93	$249,114	$70,555
50	Fayetteville	215,564	93	$248,537	$67,955

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in North Carolina, AreaVibes utilized comprehensive data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) cost of living index. The report is released annually and offers a detailed comparison of living expenses across various urban areas. The data is meticulously gathered by over 300 independent researchers, ensuring a high level of accuracy and reliability. The C2ER index encompasses more than 60 goods and services, categorized into six essential areas that significantly impact the cost of living. These categories and their respective weightings in the index are as follows: goods and services (33%), groceries (13%), health care (5%), housing (30%), transportation (9%), and utilities (10%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.