Quick answer
Wake County is not in the app's current top-scoring list for North Carolina. The highest-scoring North Carolina counties right now are Currituck County, Johnston County, Lincoln County, Chatham County — compare your county against them inside the app.
| Place | Score | Home value | Rent | Income | Pop. change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Currituck County | 79 | $351,200 | $1,126 | $91,548 | +3.5% |
| Johnston County | 77 | $267,600 | $1,007 | $79,838 | +3.5% |
| Lincoln County | 76 | $279,500 | $977 | $78,490 | +2.8% |
| Chatham County | 75 | $397,800 | $1,066 | $88,534 | +2.0% |
| Union County | 74 | $374,400 | $1,390 | $99,243 | +2.0% |
| Camden County | 73 | $289,800 | $1,220 | $87,781 | +1.9% |
| Madison County | 73 | $263,500 | $764 | $58,628 | +1.1% |
| Cabarrus County | 72 | $318,600 | $1,303 | $86,084 | +2.1% |
Verdict factors to check before you decide
- 1Price the whole address: taxes, insurance, utilities and HOA, not just the listing.
- 2Confirm the exact city, county and school assignment for the address.
- 3Drive the commute at the hours you will actually travel.
- 4Check flood, heat and storm exposure on official maps.
- 5Compare crime at the jurisdiction level, then visit at night.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wake County, NC a Good Place to Live?
Wake County is not in the app's current top-scoring list for North Carolina. The highest-scoring North Carolina counties right now are Currituck County, Johnston County, Lincoln County, Chatham County — compare your county against them inside the app.
What are the best places to live in North Carolina?
In the Smart Movers Club app, the top-scoring North Carolina cities are Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Apex, Huntersville, and the top counties are Currituck County, Johnston County, Lincoln County, Chatham County. Scores combine income, housing, growth, employment and education.
Does North Carolina have a state income tax?
Yes, North Carolina taxes wage income. Check the state revenue department for current rates and compare property and sales taxes too.
Where does this data come from?
Figures come from the Smart Movers Club app, which compiles U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates and FBI state crime rates. Census figures are survey estimates, not live listing prices.
