10 Cheapest Places to Live in North Carolina in 2025

9 mins readDec 01, 2025
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Editor
Edited By

Carol Coutinho

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Editor
Edited By

Carol Coutinho

Editor, Houzeo
About Carol Coutinho is a real estate technology expert. She is a senior content editor and helps Houzeo researchers refine their studies on home buying and selling trends. Carol also likes to explore U.S. real estate market trends and new PropTech disrupters in the residential space. Find Carol Here linkedin
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Want North Carolina’s outdoorsy lifestyle without Highland’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Tar Heel State if you know where to look.

Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Kinston or a Victorian home in Eden, North Carolina’s textile hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Lumberton to enjoy a low-cost coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $352,450.

After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in North Carolina to help you find a home that fits your budget.

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10 Cheapest Places to Live in North Carolina in 2025

CityMedian Home ValueMedian House RentCost of Living Compared to State AverageAffordability Score (out of 10)
1. Kinston$117,500$91412% ⬇️8.2
2. Rocky Mount$178,500$1,20220% ⬇️7.7
3. Eden$179,250 $1,1626% ⬇️7.5
4. Thomasville$230,000$1,3993% ⬇️7.2
5. Asheboro$254,000$1,1215% ⬇️6.9
6. Fayetteville$226,000$1,2943% ⬇️6.8
7. Lumberton $352,450$97513% ⬇️6.5
8. Burlington$245,999$1,3575% ⬇️6.5
9. Henderson$262,000$1,5029% ⬇️6.1
10. Greenville$276,500$1,3813% ⬆️6

How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina

To identify the cheap places to live in Florida, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.

Data Sources:

  • Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s North Carolina Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with Center for Housing and Community Studies (CHCS) at University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  • Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
  • Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in North Carolina Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.

We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.

All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.

Affordability Scoring:

We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:

  • Median Home Price (40%)
  • Median Rent (35%)
  • Cost of Living (25%)

This way, we can clearly show which North Carolina cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.

Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.

10 Most Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina

#1 Kinston
  • Median Home Price: $117,500
  • Median Home Rent: $914
  • Cost of Living: 12% ⬇️ than the state average.
city image
8.2/10
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8.2/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The city offers access to Neuseway Nature Park, Lions Water, and nearby parks like the Cliffs of the Neuse. All of this alongside coastal beaches within an hour’s drive. Plenty homes for sale in Kinston provide practical entry into this relaxed, nature-oriented community.

  • Kinston Country Club: This is a suburban residential area with a Kinston Country Club with an 18-hole championship golf course. The Rochelle Middle School serves the kids in the neighborhood.
  • Downtown Kinston: The neighborhood is urban with a mix of post WWII homes. Residents have a walkable access to restaurants like Chef and Farmer and the Community Council for the Arts.
  • Highland: It’s a quiet neighborhood along Highland Avenue with vintage housing stock. It sits near downtown amenities like Vernon Park Mall and even Kinston High School.
  • Job Market: Kinston’s key industries are manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Major employers are Electrolux Home Products, UNC Health Lenoir, and Spirit AeroSystems.
  • Recreation: Popular spots include the Neuseway Nature Park, CSS Neuese Civil War Interpretive Center that offer Civil War history exploration.
  • High Crime Rates: Kinston’s violent crime rate stands at 1 in 113 residents, though there was a 13.6% drop in Q2 2025.
  • Limited Job Diversity: Other than manufacturing, healthcare, and education there is limited jobs outside these sectors.
  • Flood Risk: 23.3% of properties are under the risk of flood due to Neuse River. Past hurricanes like Fran, Floyd, and Isaias have caused inundation too.
#2 Rocky Mount
  • Median Home Price: $178,500
  • Median Home Rent: $1,202
  • Cost of Living: 20% ⬇️ than state average
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7.7/10
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7.7/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The city ranks among the cheapest places to live thanks to affordable homes for sale in Rocky Mount, which keep daily expenses manageable while still delivering urban convenience. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with green spaces, small-city amenities, and regional transit that connects them to larger North Carolina hubs.

  • West Haven: This is a residential neighborhood in Rocky Mount known for its historic architecture and mature trees, providing a quiet, suburban vibe. It offers proximity to the downtown business district and the charm of large early 20th-century homes styles such as Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival.
  • Belmont Lake Preserve: The area offers a suburban setting centered around a large lake and golf course. Its appeal lies in the community’s access to parks, walking trails, and nearby schools, providing a balanced lifestyle with outdoor opportunities.
  • Englewood: The neighborhood has a more urban residential character, appealing mainly for its accessibility. Buyers appreciate its location near essential services and transit options, making it convenient for daily commuting and access to city amenities
  • Job Market: Rocky Mount’s economy centers on manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. Key employers including Pfizer (3,000 employees in biomedical production), Cummins (1,800 in diesel engines). Production occupations dominate local employment at 11.6% of the workforce, supported by distribution hubs near highways and rail lines
  • Recreation: Residents access recreation through Rocky Mount Mills, a mixed-use site with breweries, events, and trails along the Tar River. The 143-acre sports complex and 165,000-square-foot downtown event center host community activities, while nearby developments like Goat Island provide public river access.​
  • High Crime Rate: Rocky Mount has a crime rate of 41 per 1,000 residents, one of the highest in the U.S., with violent crimes at 8.70 per 1,000 and a one-in-115 victimization chance.
  • Limited Job Diversity: The workforce relies heavily on manufacturing and production (11.6% of employment), potentially restricting options outside these sectors.​
  • Flood Risk: Proximity to the Tar River increases flooding vulnerability, as seen in past events like Hurricane Floyd, impacting special flood hazard areas.
#3
  • Median Home Price: $179,250
  • Median Home Rent: $1,162
  • Cost of Living: 6% ⬇️ than state average
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7.5/10
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7.5/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Eden ranks among North Carolina’s cheapest places to live with a riverfront setting along the Smith River, and parks like Freedom Park give residents quiet, accessible recreation within a community of about 15,000. Homes for sale in Eden appeal to buyers who want affordability with easy access to Greensboro via U.S. Highway 220.

  • Sunset Hills: It is a quiet, primarily residential neighborhood in Eden characterized by older, well-maintained homes and tree-lined streets. It appeals to buyers looking for a peaceful setting with easy access to local parks and community amenities.
  • Central Area / Meadow Summit: The neighborhood offers a suburban vibe with established residential zones. This neighborhood is attractive for its proximity to schools, shopping centers, and convenient transport routes.
  • Central Leaksville & Boone Road: They have a mixed urban-residential feel, balancing residential housing with access to downtown Eden’s services and businesses. Buyers appreciate this area for its convenient location near employment centers and local parks.
  • Job Market: Eden’s economy emphasizes manufacturing, especially textiles and furniture, as the dominant sector in Rockingham County with over 5,400 workers county-wide. Key employers include Mohawk Industries, Gildan, Signode, and Weil-McLain in production roles, alongside retail and health care firms like UNC Rockingham Health Care.​
  • Recreation: Freedom Park features a splash pad, playground, skateboard park, dog park, miniature golf, and trails, reflecting family-oriented outdoor activities. The Smith River Greenway offers walking paths with butterfly trails and river access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, alongside spots like Leaksville Landing.​

 

  • High Crime Rate: Eden has a crime rate of 33 per 1,000 residents, higher than 83% of North Carolina communities, with violent crimes at 4.70 per 1,000 and property crimes at 27.92 per 1,000, yielding a one-in-31 victimization chance.​
  • Limited Job Diversity: The economy depends heavily on manufacturing like textiles, with challenges in retraining workers from declining sectors, restricting opportunities beyond production roles.​
  • Limited Amenities: Many amenities are not within walking distance, often requiring a vehicle, and public transportation access is limited, leading to longer commutes.
#4 Thomasville
  • Median Home Price: $230,000
  • Median Rent: $1,084
  • Cost of Living: 3% ⬇️ than state average
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7.2/10
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7.2/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The small-city lifestyle appeals through quiet residential areas and access to parks like Cherokee Park with walking trails and a rose garden. Homes for sale in Thomasville provide affordability near U.S. Highway 85 for commuting to High Point and Winston-Salem amenities.

  • Erwin Heights: Erwin Heights presents a suburban residential vibe within Thomasville township, featuring single-family homes in a lower-density setting. Buyers note its access to local schools and proximity to community amenities like parks.​
  • Downtown Thomasville: Downtown Thomasville has an urban, walkable character centered on historic buildings, events, and the railroad depot. It appeals due to nearness to shops, farmers markets, and cultural spots like the Big Chair landmark.​
  • Memorial Park: Memorial Park offers a quiet residential area adjacent to recreational facilities including playgrounds and sports fields. Its draw includes convenience to Veterans Memorial Park features and the Thomasville City Schools zone.
  • Job Market: Thomasville’s economy focuses on manufacturing, particularly furniture, textiles, and flooring, with major employers like Thomasville Furniture Industries, Lexington Home Brands, Mohawk Industries, and Old Dominion Freight Line.​
  • Recreation: Cherokee Park includes a lighted walking path, lake fishing, exercise stations, and the Thomasville Rose Garden, supporting outdoor family activities. Remington Park offers athletic fields, skate park, tennis, pickleball, and playgrounds, while Lake Thom-A-Lex provides water sports and golf nearby.​
  • High Crime Rate: Thomasville’s crime rate stands at 27 per 1,000 residents, higher than 76% of North Carolina communities, with violent crime at 3.50 per 1,000 (1 in 286 chance) and property crime at 23.18 per 1,000.​
  • Limited Job Diversity: Heavy reliance on manufacturing sectors like furniture and textiles limits options beyond production and logistics roles.​
  • Natural Disaster Risks: Exposure to statewide hazards including floods, hurricanes, and severe weather, as outlined in North Carolina’s hazard mitigation plans.
#5 Asheboro
  • Median Home Price: $254,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,121
  • Cost of Living: 5% ⬇️ than state average
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6.9/10
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6.9/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The mid-sized city lifestyle centers on access to the North Carolina Zoo and Uwharrie National Forest trails, alongside highways like U.S. 220 for regional connectivity. Homes for sale in Asheboro suit those prioritizing low expenses near parks and outdoor attractions.

  • Asheboro West: Asheboro West maintains a suburban residential character with single-family homes in a growing area. It appeals for proximity to schools, shopping along highways, and quick access to western park facilities.​
  • Cedar Grove: Cedar Grove offers a quiet, established residential vibe amid tree-covered lots and local zoning. Buyers value its nearness to community schools and central amenities including athletic fields.​
  • Pisgah Bridge: Pisgah Bridge provides a rural-suburban feel near Uwharrie National Forest and the historic 1911 covered bridge. Its location draws interest for trail access, river recreation, and distance from urban density.
  • Job Market: Asheboro’s key industries include manufacturing (batteries, plastics, furniture) and health care, with top employers Randolph County Schools (2,066 employees), Toyota Battery Mfg. NC (2,000), Technimark (1,250), Randolph Health (726), and NC Zoological Park (440).​
  • Recreation: Asheboro Memorial Park hosts pools, tennis, playgrounds, ballfields, and volleyball, while North Asheboro Park adds athletic fields and walking paths. The NC Zoo offers trails and wildlife exhibits; Pisgah Covered Bridge provides scenic hikes in Uwharrie Forest.
  • High Crime Rate: Asheboro’s rate is 32 per 1,000 residents (1 in 31 victimization chance), exceeding 82% of NC communities, with violent crime at 4.22 per 1,000 (1 in 237).​
  • Limited Job Diversity: Economy centers on manufacturing and education, with fewer options in tech or services beyond firms like Energizer and Technimark.​
  • Natural Disaster Risks: Vulnerable to statewide floods, hurricanes, and severe weather per NC hazard plans, including tornadoes and winter storms.
#6 Fayetteville
  • Median Home Price: $226,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,294
  • Cost of Living: 3% ⬇️state average
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6.8/10
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6.8/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The military-influenced city offers suburban lifestyles near Fort Liberty, with parks like Lake Rim (150 acres, trails, fishing) and Cape Fear Botanical Garden for recreation. Homes for sale in Fayetteville provide value with highway access to Raleigh and regional amenities.

  • Jack Britt: Jack Britt features a suburban, family-oriented residential vibe in northwest Fayetteville with spacious lots and good schools. Buyers seek its proximity to top-rated Jack Britt High School and shopping centers.​
  • Haymount: Haymount presents an established urban-residential character near downtown, blending historic homes with modern updates. It attracts due to walkability to shops, dining, and Cape Fear River trails.​
  • Gates Four: Gates Four is a gated suburban community with golf course views and luxury homes in a secure setting. Appeal includes country club amenities, pool, tennis, and nearness to Fort Liberty.
  • Job Market: Key industries span manufacturing, health care, education, and retail, with top employers Fayetteville Technical Community College (1,300), Food Lion (1,200), U.S. Postal Service (1,200), Cape Fear Valley Health (950+), and military-related like Booz Allen Hamilton (700).​
  • Recreation: Lake Rim Park spans 150 acres with trails, fishing, soccer, and volleyball around a 35-acre lake. Arnette Park offers pools, tennis, playgrounds, and fields; Cape Fear Botanical Garden provides themed trails and events.
  • High Crime Rate: Crime stands at 39.51 per 1,000 residents, with violent crime 8.76 per 1,000 (1,837 incidents) and property 30.75 per 1,000; homicides reached 28 by mid-2025.​
  • Limited Job Diversity: While varied, heavy military and manufacturing ties (e.g., Eaton, Mann+Hummel) constrain non-government/service roles.​
  • Natural Disaster Risks: Prone to hurricanes, floods, and severe weather via Cape Fear River, with emergency teams for civil unrest and rescues.
#7 Lumberton
  • Median Home Price: $352,450
  • Median Home Rent: $975
  • Cost of Living: 13% ⬇️  than state average.
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6.5/10
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6.5/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The small-city lifestyle includes access to Luther Britt Park’s lakes, trails, and disc golf along the Lumber River for outdoor pursuits. Homes for sale in Lumberton offer affordability near U.S. highways for regional travel and local amenities.​

  • Barker Ten Mile: Barker Ten Mile exhibits a rural-suburban residential vibe with single-family homes on larger lots in Lumberton’s outskirts. Buyers favor its quieter setting and access to nearby schools and highways.​
  • Tanglewood: Tanglewood maintains an established suburban character with mid-sized homes in a family-oriented zone. It appeals for proximity to recreation centers and shopping in west Lumberton.​
  • Godwin Heights: Godwin Heights features a compact urban-residential feel near central services and activity centers. Its location draws interest for convenience to parks, gyms, and local employment.
  • Job Market: Lumberton’s economy highlights manufacturing (food processing, pulp), health care, and government, with major employers like Southeastern Health, Campbell Soup Supply, Mountaire Farms, Elkay Southern (325 employees), and Lumber River EMC (115 employees).​
  • Recreation: Luther Britt Park covers 142 acres with lakes for swimming, boating, fishing, picnic shelters, volleyball, disc golf, and paved trails. Activity centers like Pine Street offer senior programs, gyms, and youth facilities.
  • High Crime Rate: Lumberton records 13,631 crimes per 100,000 (486% above national average), with 2,400 violent crimes per 100,000 (1 in 50 chance) and 11,231 property crimes per 100,000.​
  • Limited Job Diversity: Focus on manufacturing, health care, and retail yields median household income near $30,000, restricting broader opportunities.​
  • Flood Risks: Frequent Lumber River flooding, as in 2016 Hurricane Matthew, impacts infrastructure and recovery in flood-prone areas.
#8 Burlington
  • Median Home Price: $245,999
  • Median Home Rent: $1,357
  • Cost of Living: 5% ⬇️ than the state average.
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6.5/10
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6.5/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Residents enjoy access to recreational spots like City Park with its historic Dentzel Carousel and nearby waterways. Homes for sale in Burlington appeal to those seeking affordability with easy connections to highways and regional centers.

  • Mackintosh on the Lake: Mackintosh on the Lake is a scenic neighborhood on the shores of the 1,150-acre Lake Mackintosh, noted for water-based recreation and nature trails. It attracts buyers interested in outdoor activities and peaceful lake views.​
  • Waterford: Waterford features suburban family-friendly residential areas with well-maintained homes and community parks. It appeals for its quiet atmosphere and proximity to schools and shopping amenities.
  • Heritage Glen: Heritage Glen offers a close-knit suburban community feel with affordable homes. It is popular for its access to several parks, outdoor activities, and historic sites like Alamance Battleground nearby.
  • Job Market: Burlington’s economy revolves around advanced manufacturing (aerospace, life sciences, textiles), food manufacturing, and service industries. Major employers include Laboratory Corporation of America, Glen Raven, Alamance Regional Medical Center, and others.​
  • Recreation: City Park is a family-friendly hub with ballfields, train rides, a nationally registered Dentzel Carousel, and picnic areas. Additional spots include the Burlington Tennis Center, Maynard Aquatic Center, and Thataways Youth Center.
  • Crime Rate: Burlington’s crime rate is significantly above average at 45 incidents per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes at 8.32 per 1,000.​
  • Job Diversity: Though diverse, the economy still heavily depends on manufacturing and healthcare sectors, limiting high-tech and other opportunities.​
  • Natural Disaster Risks: The area faces typical Southeastern weather hazards, including hurricanes and flooding, requiring preparedness for storm impacts.
#9 Henderson
  • Median Home Price: $262,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,502
  • Cost of Living: 9% ⬇️ than state average
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#9/10
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#9/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The small-city lifestyle provides access to parks like Hix Recreation Park and Kerr Lake State Recreation Area for boating and trails. Homes for sale in Henderson attract those valuing low expenses near U.S. highways linking to Raleigh.​

  • Dabney: Dabney maintains a suburban residential vibe with single-family homes in Henderson’s outskirts. Buyers note its proximity to local schools and highway access for commuting.​
  • Epsom: Epsom features a rural neighborhood character with low-density housing near Gillburg. It appeals for its quiet setting and distance from urban areas while close to regional amenities.​
  • Raleigh: Raleigh presents an established residential feel within Henderson township. Its location draws interest for convenience to community services and parks.
  • Job Market: Henderson’s economy centers on manufacturing, food processing, and logistics, with employers like Procter & Gamble, Ardagh Group, Kennametal, and Revlon in production roles.​
  • Recreation: Hix Recreation Park offers sports fields, playgrounds, and trails, while Kerr Lake State Recreation Area provides boating, fishing, and camping. Occoneechee State Park adds hiking and equestrian paths nearby.
  • High Crime Rate: Henderson’s violent crime rate is 435.2 per 100,000 (309% above national average), with property crime at 319.6 per 100,000; chance of victimization is 1 in 55 for violent crime.​
  • Limited Job Diversity: Reliance on manufacturing and entry-level roles limits options beyond light industry and distribution.​
  • Natural Disaster Risks: Exposure to floods, hurricanes, and severe weather per regional hazard mitigation plans.
#10 Greenville
  • Median Home Price: $276,500
  • Median Home Rent: $1,381
  • Cost of Living: 3% ⬆️ than the state average
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6/10
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6/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The city combines affordable suburban neighborhoods with access to parks, trails, and local cultural amenities. Homes for sale in Greenville are attractive for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with proximity to the city’s recreational and job opportunities.​

  • Lynndale: Lynndale has a traditional suburban residential atmosphere with established homes and quiet streets. It appeals for its family-friendly environment and access to local schools and parks.[ inferred]
  • Westhaven: Westhaven offers a suburban feel with modern housing developments and community amenities. Buyers appreciate its convenient location near shopping centers and major transportation routes.[ inferred]
  • Tree Tops: Tree Tops is known for its wooded, spacious lots creating a semi-rural suburban vibe. It attracts buyers looking for privacy and natural surroundings while still close to city conveniences.
  • Job Market: Greenville’s economy is diverse with key sectors including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Major employers include Vidant Medical Center, East Carolina University, and Cummins Inc.​
  • Recreation: Greenville offers numerous parks such as River Park North with biking and walking trails, and East Carolina University’s cultural venues. The community hosts festivals, farmers markets, and local events reflecting the vibrant lifestyle.
  • Safety Concerns: Crime rates in some parts of Greenville can be higher than average, necessitating consideration of neighborhood-specific data.[ inferred]
  • Cost Variability: While housing is generally affordable, food and healthcare costs trend higher than national averages.​
  • Limited Public Transit: Transportation options may be limited outside main corridors, impacting accessibility for non-drivers.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re eyeing North Carolina’s coast, Wilmington is a standout choice. From Carolina Beach to Ogden, you’ll find plenty of affordable homes for sale in Wilmington with great long-term value.

Morrisville (safety score of 85) and Concord (safety score of 83) are the cheapest and safest cities in North Carolina. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.

3 Cheapest Places to Live In North Carolina for Young Adults

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Young Adults
1.RaleighIts job market is powered by tech and life sciences, employers like IBM, Cisco, and a fast-growing startup sector. With vibrant neighborhoods such as North Hills, Brier Creek, and Five Points, along with a strong mix of homes for sale in Raleigh, it’s easy to find a place that fits both lifestyle and career.
2.GreensboroIts major employers are Guilford County Schools and Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital. The arts scene thrives around the Weatherspoon Art Museum at UNC Greensboro. With a steady supply of homes for sale in Greensboro and access to Winston-Salem and Raleigh-Durham, residents enjoy both local comfort and networking opportunities.
3.GreenvilleEast Carolina University fuels steady demand for services and provides major employment in education and healthcare. Downtown brings added energy with spots like The Skillet and local coffee bars. With the Greenville Greenway Trail, River Park North, and the Tar River, residents enjoy affordable and accessible outdoor recreation.

3 Cheapest Places to Live In North Carolina for Families

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Young Families
1.EdenEden Central School delivers strong education, while family events at the Eden Farmers’ Market and outdoor spots along the Dan River create regular community connection. Nearby parks and the Eden Drive-In Movie Theater add low-cost entertainment for kids and families.
2.Rocky MountFamilies enjoy attractions such as the Imperial Centre for the Arts and Sciences, which includes a Children’s Museum and Science Center. Parks like Meadowbrook add more options with playgrounds, open space, and walking trails. Events such as Downtown Live! and BBQ Throw Down provide affordable community fun.
3.FayettevilleThe city draws strength from a diverse economy, supported in large part by Fort Liberty. Families benefit from good schools in Cumberland County and accessible attractions like the Airborne & Special Operations Museum and local farmers’ markets. With Raleigh close by, residents enjoy easy weekend outings without big-city costs.

3 Cheapest Places to Live In North Carolina for Retirees

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Retirees
1.HickoryLake Hickory offers daily lakefront views along with boating and pier fishing at Geitner-Rotary Park. The 10-mile Hickory Trail adds walkable paths like the City Walk and provides easy access to Catawba Valley Medical Center for routine care. With these amenities and a steady selection of homes for sale in Hickory, the city appeals to buyers looking for both recreation and convenience.
2.AsheboroShaded paths at the North Carolina Zoo offer relaxed animal viewing by tram or on walking trails through the North America and Africa exhibits. Terrabella Asheboro provides maintenance-free senior living with apartments close to the zoo, making low-effort outings easy and convenient.
3.Roanoke RapidsThe 7-mile Roanoke Canal Trail offers flat hiking and biking along historic canal locks, with the Roanoke Canal Museum available for self-paced exploration. All this is located within a 90-minute drive of Raleigh’s major hospitals via I-95. With a variety of homes for sale in Roanoke Rapids, it’s easy for buyers to enjoy both active living and practical access to regional amenities.

3 Hidden Costs to Consider in North Carolina

Even in the cheapest North Carolina Cities, affordability isn’t just about the price tag on a home. It also includes property taxes, insurance, utilities, and everyday living costs that shape the true budget for a comfortable lifestyle. Consider all these factors when looking for the cheapest cities in NC.

  • Vehicle Property Taxes: North Carolina charges an annual property tax on vehicles, often totaling $300–$800 for a typical SUV or truck, along with a $38.75 registration fee and $30 safety inspection. New residents also face a one-time 3% highway use tax.
  • HOA Fees: Many subdivisions built after the 1990s require annual homeowners association dues of $300–$700 for mid-range homes, covering amenities but limiting modifications. Luxury neighborhoods can exceed $1,200, while older areas like Burlington often have no HOA fees at all.
  • Healthcare Costs: About two-thirds of families face medical cost challenges, with 32% relying on credit cards to pay bills. Many worry about unexpected charges in a state marked by high uninsured rates and variable healthcare costs.
👉 Quick Tip: North Carolina’s Homestead Exemption allows owners aged 65+ or disabled up to $25,000 or 50% off the taxable value of your primary residence, provided 2024 income does not exceed $37,900.

Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in North Carolina to Live In

CityMedian Home PriceAvg Monthly MortgageInsurance/taxesEstimated Monthly Cost for a Single PersonMonthly Savings vs. Marvin
Kinston$117,500$1,534$1,018$2,552$7,440
Charlotte$422,500$2,924$2,201$5,125$4,867
Marvin$1,347,500$6,121$3,871$9,992
Source: Expatistan

Affordable Living Beyond North Carolina

Not sure if the cheapest places in North Carolina to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and affordable housing, just like Florida.

Tax Benefits

Arkansas, like North Carolina, has low property taxes, income tax rates, and overall low cost of living. These are 3 cheapest places to live in Arkansas:

  • Fort Smith: Median home price is $188,653, rent under $673, and the effective property tax rate around 0.59%, among lowest nationally.
  • Russellville: Median home price is $260,000, rent under $798, and the sales tax rate is from 9-9.5%.
  • Texarkana: Median home price is $177,773, rent under $691, and the state income tax top rate is 3.9%, benefitting border residents.

Strong Job Market

Oklahoma matches North Carolina’s strong job market with growth in tech, healthcare, energy, and finance. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Oklahoma:

  • Oklahoma City: Median home prices are around $231,000, rent under $1,056 and booking in energy and healthcare jobs.
  • Tulsa: Median home prices are around $210,000, rent under $1,010, and strong in tech and aerospace sectors.
  • Broken Arrow: Median home prices are around $275,250, median rent around $1,150, and unemployment rate is 2.2%.

Affordable Housing

West Virginia provides affordable housing akin to North Carolina while ranking among the cheapest states to live, with a cost of living index of 85. These are the cheapest places to live in West Virginia:

  • Weirton: Average home price is $120,000, median rent is $750, and cost of living is 20% below the national average.
  • Huntington: Average home price is $135,000, median rent is $800, and benefits from university-driven stability and riverfront affordability.​
  • Beckly: Median home price is $142,000, average rent is $775, and you get low housing costs in Appalachian setting with outdoor recreation access.​

Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in North Carolina?

Kinston, Rocky Mount, and Eden are the most affordable cities to live in North Carolina. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living nearly 20% lower than the national norm.

Moving to North Carolina also offers valuable tax advantages, with property taxes averaging at 0.59%. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the least expensive place to live in North Carolina?

The cheapest place to live in NC is Kinston.

» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in North Carolina: Find out the other cheapest places to live in North Carolina.

Where is the best place to live in North Carolina?

The best place to live in North Carolina is Asheville, followed by Charlotte, Wilmington, Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Winston-Salem.

What are the living expenses in North Carolina?

The average cost to live in North Carolina is 4% below the national average. Moreover, transportation is 5% cheaper than the national average.

Where is the best place to retire in North Carolina on a budget?

Hickory, Asheboro, and Roanoke Rapids are among the best places to retire in North Carolina on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.

Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in North Carolina?

Rocky Mount (78) and Lumberton (82) have the cheapest cost of living in North Carolina. Rocky Mount's cost of living is 20% below the average, while Lumberton's is 13% lower.