Deciding whether moving to North Carolina is worth it depends on various factors, as it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, priorities, and circumstances.

If you’re thinking about moving to North Carolina, but don’t know if it’s worth it, you should start by comparing the total cost of living in North Carolina versus your current state. 

North Carolina generally has a lower cost of living compared to some other states, especially in the central and eastern regions. However, this can vary depending on the specific city or town you're considering.

The Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia metro is expected to be one of the most populated areas by 2100 and the average living expenses in this metro area add up to $31,055 per year.

A single person can live comfortably making $62,110 in comparison, placing Charlotte No. 21 in the country.according to a recent study.

Factors influencing the cost of living in this metro area include housing, transportation, healthcare, utilities, groceries, and miscellaneous expenses. Here's a general overview:

• Housing: Housing costs in the Charlotte area can vary depending on the specific neighborhood and housing type. In general, compared to other metropolitan areas in the United States, housing costs were relatively affordable, but this can depend on individual circumstances and market conditions. The average North Carolina home value is $320,324 and as of November 2023, the average rent in the Charlotte, NC metro area was $1,416/month.

 NOTE : One popular rule of thumb is the 30% rule, which says to spend around 30% of your gross income on housing.

• Transportation: The cost of transportation can vary based on factors such as commuting distance and reliance on public transportation. The Charlotte area has a mix of urban and suburban areas, and transportation costs may include vehicle expenses, fuel, and possibly public transportation fees.
• Utilities: Utility costs, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and internet, are generally in line with national averages. Actual costs can vary based on personal consumption and the size of the living space.
• Healthcare: Healthcare costs are an essential consideration. The availability of healthcare facilities and the cost of health services in the Charlotte area can impact overall living expenses.
• Groceries: The cost of groceries is influenced by factors such as local food prices and individual dietary habits, North Carolina’s average annual food cost per person is estimated to be $3,630, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. That’s about $303 per person, per month.
• Child Care: Average Child Care Costs in North Carolina: $732 to $1,170 or more per child, per month
• Miscellaneous Expenses: This category includes various everyday expenses like dining out, entertainment, and personal care. Costs in this category can vary based on personal choices and lifestyle.

PRO TIP: Track your current expenses, for a full month. Start by creating a budget that outlines your income and all of your regular expenses. Categorize your expenses into fixed (e.g., rent, utilities) and variable (e.g., groceries, entertainment).

Before making a decision, it's advisable to visit the specific areas you're considering, talk to locals, and gather as much information as possible. Additionally, think about your long-term goals and how well North Carolina aligns with them.