Where are the best places to buy a house in NC? New report reveals top-ranked cities

Niche released a list of the best places to buy a house in North Carolina based on home values, property taxes, home ownership rates.Photo byValuePenguin

If you're considering settling down in North Carolina, Niche has released its annual rankings of the best places to buy a house in the state. The rankings are based on home values, property taxes, home ownership rates, housing costs, and real estate trends.

1. Winston-Salem

• Overall Niche Grade: A
• Public Schools: B+
• Housing: B
• Good for Families: A-
• Nightlife: B+
• Diversity: A+
  Winston-Salem, known as the "Twin City" for its arts and innovation, ranks as the best place to buy a house in North Carolina. It is located in Forsyth County and has a population of around 251,350.

Bikers at Salem Lake Park in Winston-Salem.Photo byNC Triad Outdoors Courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem

2. Raleigh

• Overall Niche Grade: A+
• Public Schools: A
• Housing: B
• Good for Families: A
• Crime and Safety: C
• Nightlife: A-
• Diversity: A
  The state's capital offers excellent public schools and a vibrant nightlife, making it a top choice for new homeowners.

3. High Point

• Overall Niche Grade: A-
• Public Schools: B
• Housing: B
• Good for Families: B+
• Crime and Safety: C-
• Nightlife: B+
• Diversity: A+
  High Point is known for its affordability and diverse community, despite its lower crime and safety rating.

4. Greensboro

• Overall Niche Grade: A-
• Public Schools: B
• Housing: B-
• Good for Families: B+
• Crime and Safety: C-
• Nightlife: A-
• Diversity: A+
  This city offers a vibrant nightlife and is good for families, though safety is a concern.

5. Fayetteville

• Overall Niche Grade: B+
• Public Schools: B
• Housing: B-
• Good for Families: B
• Crime and Safety: D+
• Nightlife: A-
• Diversity: A+
  Fayetteville ranks well for nightlife and diversity, but has lower safety scores.

6. Durham

• Overall Niche Grade: A
• Public Schools: B-
• Housing: B-
• Good for Families: B+
• Crime and Safety: C-
• Nightlife: A-
• Diversity: A+
  Durham is a diverse city with good nightlife and family-friendly neighborhoods.

7. Charlotte

Overall Niche Grade: A

• Public Schools: B+
• Housing: B-
• Good for Families: A-
• Crime and Safety: C-
• Nightlife: A
• Diversity: A+
  As North Carolina's largest city, Charlotte offers excellent amenities and diversity.

8. Wilmington

• Overall Niche Grade: A-
• Public Schools: A-
• Housing: C
• Good for Families: B+
• Crime and Safety: C-
• Nightlife: A
• Diversity: A-
  Wilmington is known for its coastal charm and strong public schools, despite higher housing costs.

These rankings provide a helpful guide for those looking to buy a house in North Carolina, considering factors that affect overall quality of life and community satisfaction.