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Raleigh : North carolina

What it's Like to Retire in Raleigh

Raleigh, the capitol of North Carolina, is a fast-growing city in the middle of the state. Known as the "City of Oaks", almost 400,000 people lived here in 2008, up 40% from 2000. Raleigh has a diversified economy and is home to several colleges including NC State at Raleigh. This city is one of three in the so-called Research Triangle, the others being Durham and Chapel Hill.

There have been a number of successful projects to bring condominiums, shops, and restaurants to the downtown area. The city has several historic districts including the Fayetteville Historic District.

Where to Retire in Raleigh and Home Prices

There are many interesting neighborhoods to live in as well as some 55+ active adult communities (see link at top right).
According to City-Data.com the average home sold for about $260,000 in late 2014. The National Association of Realtors had the median selling price at $247,900 in the second quarter of 2015 in Raleigh-Cary.

What is special about Raleigh

Raleigh is the fast growing NC capital named to several "10 Best" lists. Not all retirees will appreciate the notice from the Wall St. Journal - Raleigh was named one of the top 10 cities emerging as the “hottest, hippest destinations” for educated workers in their 20s when the U.S. economy gets moving again. The Journal cited low cost of living, expanding Ft. Bragg, and highly educated population. There are 8,100 acres of parks, multiple community centers, 112 tennis courts, 8 acquatic centers, and many bike trails and lanes.

What is not special about Raleigh

Raleigh is a city, so you have to like that. It is a fast growing city that has traffic and rapid growth.

Who will like retirement in Raleigh

Folks who are looking for life in a fast-paced, middle-sized city in the south, will like it in Raleigh. It offers a more moderate climate and there is plenty to do.

Local economy is driven by

Banking/ financial services, healthcare, universities, and many corporations.

Climate and Physical Environment

Raleigh is in the middle of the state, part of the Research Triangle region. Average January temperature is about 40 (F.). The mountains are not far away.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

As the state capital Raleigh has a number of significant cultural institutions. Those include African American Cultural Complex, Contemporary Art Museum, Gregg Museum of Art & Design at NCSU, Haywood Hall House & Gardens, North Carolina Museum of Art, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History. The Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion hosts major concert acts. The Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts hosts plays, concerts, ballet, opera, and symphony concerts. The Meymandi Theatre at the Murphey School is one of many theater venues.

Crime

The crime rate is very close to the national average.

Medical facilities

Raleigh is home to many hospitals including the Dorothea Dix Hospital.

Transportation

The Raleigh-Durham Airport offers convenient service. Amtrak stops in Raleigh. Capital Area Transit System provides bus service through the region. Raleigh is considered below average in walkability when compared to other citiies.

Valuable Links

North Carolina Retirement Guide
Raleigh Wikipedia page
City of Raleigh
Raleigh Chamber of Commerce

What people are saying about Raleigh
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Raleigh Active Communities

Facts about RALEIGH

State: NC
Environment: Urban,Suburban,College Town,Cultural Center,
City Population: 100,001+
Median age of Population: 25-44
Avg Jan Temperature: 41-60
Avg July Temperature: 60-80
Median HH Income: 41,001-60,000
Average Home Price (MLS): $200,001-$300,000
Annual Property Tax on a $200,000 house: Less than 2000
Total Crime Index: 91-100 (slightly below average)
Cost of Living Index: 101-110 (slightly above average)
Culture Index: 111-120 (high)
State Sales Tax: Yes
State Income Tax: Yes
Name of the Guide: boomer1

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