When WalletHub released its 2025 Best & Worst State Economies report, North Carolina once again stood out — ranking #6 in the nation. That’s up from #8 last year. For investors, this matters: a healthy, growing state economy is one of the strongest foundations for consistent, secure real estate returns.
A Data-Driven Look at Economic Strength
WalletHub’s study compares all 50 states across 28 indicators of economic performance, grouped into Economic Activity, Economic Health, and Innovation Potential. North Carolina excelled in each:
- GDP growth: 6th highest in the U.S.
- Non-farm job growth: 12th
- High-tech industry employment: 11th
- Startup activity: 17th
The numbers confirm what investors and business owners already sense — the state’s economy is both dynamic and resilient.
Growth Driven by Innovation and Diversity
North Carolina’s growth engine isn’t limited to one sector. Technology, biotech, advanced manufacturing, and logistics are all expanding — from Raleigh’s innovation corridor to Charlotte’s financial hub and the Triad’s industrial resurgence. This balanced growth supports broad-based prosperity rather than dependence on a single industry.
That diversity is key for investors: diversified local economies tend to produce stable rents, strong tenant demand, and steady appreciation over time.
Economic Health: The Foundation for Real Estate Stability
A strong economy translates directly to real-world fundamentals that support long-term real estate performance:
- Population and job growth drive demand for both housing and neighborhood retail.
- In-migration from higher-cost states fuels sustained demand for workforce housing and suburban convenience centers.
- High-tech employment growth increases purchasing power and community stability.
For multifamily and neighborhood shopping centers — the core of NC Capital Group’s strategy — these are the market dynamics that produce consistent cash flow and lower volatility.
Why We Are Paying Attention
Real estate is inherently local. While national headlines focus on broad market cycles, the real story lies in regional fundamentals — and North Carolina’s remain among the strongest in the country. The state’s climb to #6 nationally is more than a statistic; it reflects a favorable long-term environment for investors seeking reliable performance and appreciation backed by real economic strength.
A Solid Ground for Long-Term Growth
As WalletHub’s data shows, North Carolina is not just growing — it’s innovating, diversifying, and thriving. For passive investors looking for stable, cash-flowing assets, this kind of economic environment offers security, predictability, and opportunity.
NC Capital Group continues to focus on acquiring and improving properties in markets like Raleigh, Charlotte, and the surrounding regions — where economic health and local knowledge combine to build long-term wealth.
Phil Neari, CPM, is a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and has been active in the commercial real estate and property management business for over 30 years. He holds the prestigious Certified Property Manager designation (CPM) awarded by the Institute of Real Estate Management and is a Licensed Real Estate Broker in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and Texas. Phil is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Phil is Broker in Charge of our Winston-Salem office and oversees property management and leasing activities. He also provides advisory services to select buyer and tenant representation clients as well as identifies potential investment and development properties.