Largest cities in North Carolina

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North Carolina, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 10.5 million, it ranks as the 9th most populated state in the U.S. North Carolina has experienced rapid population growth, driven by its attractive living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Virginia to the north, Tennessee to the west, Georgia and South Carolina to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, North Carolina offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 553 cities and towns.

Living in North Carolina provides residents with numerous benefits, including a mild climate, excellent schools, and abundant natural beauty. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. North Carolina's economy is diverse, with strengths in technology, healthcare, and finance. The state's rapid population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in North Carolina, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of North Carolina cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Charlotte Population: 903,228 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 793 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,950 Med. Household Income: $97,929

Living in Charlotte, NC, known as 'The Queen City,' offers a dynamic urban experience combined with Southern charm. Located in southern North Carolina, Charlotte is a large city that serves as a major economic and cultural hub. Major nearby cities like Raleigh and Greensboro enhance its status as a central point in the region. Charlotte's blend of modern amenities, historic sites, and a strong sense of community creates a distinctive living experience.

Raleigh Population: 482,278 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 376 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,324 Med. Household Income: $103,493

Raleigh, NC, known as 'The City of Oaks,' offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities. Located in central North Carolina, Raleigh is a large city that serves as the state capital and a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Durham and Chapel Hill enhance its status as a central point in the Research Triangle region. Raleigh's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Greensboro Population: 304,481 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 333 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,369 Med. Household Income: $72,482

Greensboro, NC, known as 'The Gate City,' offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern urban amenities. Located in central North Carolina, Greensboro is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Winston-Salem and Raleigh enhance its status as a central point in the region. Greensboro's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Durham Population: 285,434 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 286 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,587 Med. Household Income: $92,427

Durham, NC, known as 'The Bull City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in central North Carolina, Durham is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Raleigh and Chapel Hill enhance its status as a central point in the region. Durham's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Winston-Salem Population: 255,400 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 343 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,928 Med. Household Income: $70,222

Winston-Salem, NC, known as 'The Twin City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in the northwestern part of North Carolina, Winston-Salem is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Greensboro and High Point enhance its status as a central point in the region. Winston-Salem's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Fayetteville Population: 215,564 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 383 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,458 Med. Household Income: $67,955

Fayetteville, NC, known as 'A City of History and Heroes,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in southeastern North Carolina, Fayetteville is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Raleigh and Wilmington enhance its status as a central point in the region. Fayetteville's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Cary Population: 173,346 Livability Score: 89

Area Size: 146 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,068 Med. Household Income: $163,086

Cary, NC, known as "A Great Place to Live," is a thriving community with a rich history and a high quality of life. Located in the heart of the Research Triangle, Cary is approximately 12 miles west of Raleigh and 20 miles east of Chapel Hill. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and strong sense of community.

Wilmington Population: 125,049 Livability Score: 69

Area Size: 134 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,420 Med. Household Income: $75,615

Wilmington, North Carolina, known as "The Port City," is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene. Located along the Cape Fear River and near the Atlantic Ocean, Wilmington offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and modern amenities. The city's dynamic growth and strong sense of community make living in Wilmington an attractive option.

High Point Population: 116,418 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 144 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,099 Med. Household Income: $72,771

High Point, North Carolina, known as "The Furniture Capital of the World," is a vibrant city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. With its world-renowned furniture industry, excellent schools, and thriving cultural scene, High Point offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in High Point an attractive option for families and professionals.

Concord Population: 97,608 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 163 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,552 Med. Household Income: $104,051

Living in Concord, NC is an exciting experience, especially for those who have a need for speed. Known as the 'City of Speed' due to its close association with NASCAR and motorsports, Concord offers a dynamic lifestyle with plenty of attractions and activities. The city is home to the famous Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Concord Mills Mall, making it a hub of entertainment and shopping.

Full list of the largest cities in North Carolina

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Charlotte	903,228	793	$97,929	78
2	Raleigh	482,278	376	$103,493	83
3	Greensboro	304,481	333	$72,482	81
4	Durham	285,434	286	$92,427	81
5	Winston-Salem	255,400	343	$70,222	66
6	Fayetteville	215,564	383	$67,955	75
7	Cary	173,346	146	$163,086	89
8	Wilmington	125,049	134	$75,615	69
9	High Point	116,418	144	$72,771	76
10	Concord	97,608	163	$104,051	80
11	Asheville	95,516	118	$79,235	71
12	Greenville	95,299	91	$64,384	77
13	Gastonia	79,485	134	$75,898	59
14	Jacksonville	76,345	121	$68,857	71
15	Chapel Hill	64,145	56	$112,596	84
16	Huntersville	59,572	105	$152,792	74
17	Apex	57,037	45	$167,811	86
18	Burlington	56,679	76	$67,164	70
19	Rocky Mount	56,346	114	$63,503	70
20	Kannapolis	51,586	84	$81,737	64
21	Wilson	50,769	80	$63,882	63
22	Wake Forest	45,648	42	$150,377	84
23	Hickory	42,059	76	$71,911	71
24	Indian Trail	40,641	57	$129,828	65
25	Mooresville	39,772	62	$103,666	73
26	Holly Springs	37,538	42	$162,968	83
27	Monroe	36,140	77	$80,355	57
28	Goldsboro	35,716	74	$55,222	61
29	Salisbury	35,060	58	$65,895	63
30	Matthews	33,739	44	$135,652	83
31	Garner	31,549	39	$99,772	76
32	New Bern	30,984	73	$64,202	70
33	Cornelius	30,849	30	$136,016	72
34	Sanford	30,447	69	$69,689	71
35	Fuquay-Varina	29,773	34	$119,999	79
36	Mint Hill	28,318	63	$118,954	72
37	Morrisville	28,305	22	$148,685	76
38	Statesville	27,848	63	$61,360	58
39	Thomasville	27,805	43	$62,983	81
40	Asheboro	26,430	49	$54,660	72
41	Kernersville	25,556	46	$83,583	70
42	Clayton	24,066	38	$91,315	69
43	Leland	22,366	51	$110,906	68
44	Carrboro	22,056	17	$99,741	78
45	Lumberton	21,466	46	$55,898	62
46	Clemmons	21,136	31	$111,326	83
47	Kinston	20,770	48	$48,744	55
48	Shelby	20,722	55	$58,938	74
49	Havelock	20,409	44	$75,000	72
50	Boone	19,927	16	$38,592	84

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in North Carolina, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.