Top 3 Places North Carolina Millennials Want to Live in 2025

As home prices and lifestyle priorities shift, millennials are redefining what the “ideal place to live” looks like. The days of chasing big-city living are giving way to a more balanced approach — one that blends affordability, community, and access to nature. North Carolina stands out as a leading destination for young professionals and growing families looking to settle down in 2025.

From vibrant urban centers to walkable suburban communities like Holding Village in Wake Forest, offers something for every lifestyle. Let’s explore why North Carolina has become such a magnet for millennials and the top places where they’re choosing to put down roots.

Why North Carolina Is One of the Best Places to Live

North Carolina consistently ranks among the best places to live in the U.S., and for good reason. The state’s combination of affordability, career opportunities, and quality of life makes it especially appealing to young adults. 

Beyond the job market, North Carolina offers a mild climate, scenic outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. These factors resonate with millennials seeking a healthier work-life balance. Whether it’s hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, weekend trips to the coast, or simply enjoying local breweries and festivals, North Carolina offers a lifestyle that feels both exciting and attainable.

Millennials Moving to the Suburbs: A Growing Trend

According to recent research highlighted by NewHomeSource, millennials moving to the suburbs is one of the most significant housing trends of the decade. After years of favoring downtown apartments and city-center amenities, many are now prioritizing space, affordability, and community-oriented living.

Remote and hybrid work have accelerated this shift, allowing young professionals to live farther from urban job centers without sacrificing career growth. The suburbs now offer what many millennials once sought in the city: vibrant social life, walkable communities, and modern amenities.

Best Places to Live in North Carolina for Young Adults

When it comes to the best places to live in North Carolina for young adults, three destinations consistently rise to the top:

1. Raleigh

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the South, Raleigh offers an unbeatable mix of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and affordability. The Research Triangle Park area, shared with Durham and Chapel Hill, is home to major tech, biotech, and research companies, making it a prime location for young professionals. Raleigh’s thriving food scene, arts community, and abundant greenways make it a city where millennials can work hard and live well.

2. Charlotte

Charlotte combines big-city energy with southern charm. It’s a major financial hub and one of the most diverse metro areas in the region. Young adults are drawn to its high-rise apartments, professional sports teams, and growing entertainment districts. Yet, just outside the city center, you’ll find peaceful suburban communities ideal for first-time homebuyers looking for value and convenience.

3. Wake Forest

For those who crave a slower pace without giving up modern comforts, Wake Forest is quickly emerging as a top choice. This town offers the small-town feel millennials want, with easy access to Raleigh’s job market and cultural scene. The community’s historic downtown, outdoor recreation options, and excellent schools make it a prime destination for young families.

And with beautiful homes for sale in Wake Forest, NC, neighborhoods like Holding Village bring together lakeside living, walkability, and architectural charm. It’s no surprise that Wake Forest has become one of the most sought-after places for millennials settling in the Triangle area.

Is North Carolina a Good Place to Live?

The state’s mix of economic opportunity, affordability, and natural beauty continues to attract people from across the country. North Carolina ranks highly for its livability, particularly for those in their 20s and 30s who want to balance career growth with a fulfilling lifestyle. 

The cost of living remains lower than the national average, while major metro areas continue to expand job opportunities in technology, healthcare, and education. Add in the abundance of parks, lakes, and beaches, and it’s easy to see why more millennials are calling North Carolina home.

Homes for Sale in Wake Forest, NC

Wake Forest offers something that many suburban areas can’t: a true sense of place. This thriving town is more than a bedroom community. Homebuyers are drawn to its mix of historic character, scenic beauty, and modern developments that support today’s active lifestyles.

Communities like Holding Village are at the forefront of this appeal. Centered around a 15-acre lake and surrounded by walking trails, this neighborhood is designed for connection to nature, to neighbors, and to the conveniences of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a cozy townhome or a spacious single-family home, Wake Forest provides options that reflect the diverse needs of today’s millennial buyers.

A Lifestyle That Grows with You

North Carolina’s appeal isn’t just in its scenery or job opportunities: it’s in the way life here feels balanced and intentional. It’s where you can build a career, raise a family, or simply enjoy a little more room to breathe. Millennials are finding that here, life moves at a pace that makes sense, where connection and comfort come naturally.

Imagine coming home to a lakeside view, friendly neighbors, and walking trails right outside your door. That’s everyday life at Holding Village. Contact us today to find a home that fits your lifestyle and grows with you for years to come.