Southern Charm: The Booming Appeal of Southern U.S. Cities
In recent years, the 16 states south of the Mason-Dixon Line have experienced impressive population and economic growth. This trend is evident from the latest Census Bureau migration data, which shows that in 2023, the majority of the top 10 counties witnessing an influx of new residents were located in the South.
This migration is driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, affordable living, and a favorable quality of life. If you’ve been contemplating a move to the South, you’re not alone. Each year, U.S. News & World Report evaluates 150 major cities across the nation on multiple factors such as quality of life, educational systems, crime statistics, job availability, and housing affordability. The result is a comprehensive list of the best places to live in the United States.
Often, states like North Carolina dominate these lists. Known for its stunning mountain vistas and coastal attractions, North Carolina also presents an attractively low cost of living and maintained a favorable 3.6% unemployment rate as of May, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The state boasts significant entries in the U.S. News rankings, with Charlotte and Raleigh taking the 3rd and 4th spots, respectively. Meanwhile, the smaller city of Hickory, though less renowned, secured the 15th place, marking it as a hidden gem for prospective movers.
In an economy heavily driven by technological advancements, regions like North Carolina offer robust employment opportunities, particularly in tech sectors. According to local residents, losing a tech job in this area might just mean a brief hiatus before securing another—a testament to the dynamic job market.
For those eyeing a new life in the South, Business Insider has culled the top 15 Southern cities from U.S. News & World Report’s list. These cities not only offer plentiful job opportunities but also feature relatively affordable home prices and rents, ensuring a high standard of living.
Top 15 Southern Cities to Call Home
Here are the 15 best places to live in the South, according to U.S. News & World Report:
- Charlotte, NC
- Raleigh, NC
- Austin, TX
- Huntsville, AL
- Fayetteville, AR
- Sarasota, FL
- Knoxville, TN
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
- Charleston, SC
- Greenville, SC
- Tampa, FL
- Orlando, FL
- Pensacola, FL
- Savannah, GA
- Hickory, NC
Data sources include the U.S. Census for 2023 population figures, the U.S. Census for 2022 income statistics, May 2024 median home prices from Realtor.com, and July median rent information from Zillow.
The South’s allure is clear—beautiful landscapes, economic vitality, and a lower cost of living continue to draw people from across the country, making it a region of growing importance and thriving communities.
