North Carolina has become one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the U.S.
For investors seeking long-term growth, income, and diversification, the Tar Heel State offers a powerful combination of demographic trends and economic momentum.
Here are 5 reasons why you should consider investing in real estate in North Carolina today:
1. Robust Population Growth and In-Migration
North Carolina is among the top states for net in-migration:
- In 2023, NC ranked #3 in net domestic migration in the U.S.
- Major metros like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington are attracting professionals, retirees, and remote workers.
Population growth fuels demand for both housing and retail space, providing a strong foundation for real estate investments.
2. Diverse and Expanding Economy
North Carolina has transformed into a magnet for high-quality jobs:
- Tech: Apple, Google, Cisco, Red Hat
- Life sciences: Eli Lilly, Fujifilm Diosynth, Thermo Fisher
- Manufacturing & Clean Energy: Wolfspeed, Toyota
- Financial Services: Bank of America, Truist, Credit Suisse
This economic diversification supports job and wage growth—driving demand for multifamily housing, neighborhood retail, and services.
3. Relative Affordability vs. Other Growth Markets
Compared to markets like Austin, Denver, or Nashville, North Carolina still offers relatively affordable real estate:
- Lower entry costs for investors
- More room for appreciation
- Attractive cost of living for residents
This combination attracts both renters and homebuyers, enhancing real estate fundamentals.
4. Investor-Friendly Environment
North Carolina offers a supportive environment for real estate investors:
- Landlord-friendly regulations in most markets
- Property tax rates below the national average
- Low business tax rates
- Business-friendly climate that encourages corporate investment and job creation
These factors make it easier for investors to operate and achieve consistent returns.
5. Quality of Life That Drives Demand
People don’t just move to NC for jobs—they move for lifestyle:
- Milder climate and outdoor recreation
- Thriving cultural, food, and music scenes
- Access to beaches, mountains, and world-class universities
- Top healthcare systems
These quality-of-life factors drive long-term housing demand and support stable, vibrant communities—ideal for real estate investment.
Final Thought: A Market Positioned for Long-Term Success
Whether you’re investing in workforce housing, neighborhood retail, or other real estate segments, North Carolina offers one of the most compelling combinations of growth, affordability, and stability in the country.
At NC Capital Group, we help investors access opportunities in high-growth North Carolina markets—without the hassle of active management.
Eddie Coleman, CCIM, is the Principal Investment Officer at NC Capital Group. With over 40 years of experience in Commercial Real Estate in North Carolina and South Carolina, his experience spans multifamily, retail, office, historic adaptation, etc. In addition to advising clients and brokering transactions, he has extensive knowledge of North Carolina through experience in corporate site acquisition, development, capitalization, HUD financing, etc. He holds the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation.