Moving from New York to North Carolina

The Difference in Climate

Although some regions of New York experience warm summers, North Carolina is much hotter and humid than New York. The humidity decreases when you move farther west towards the mountains, but the Piedmont (central NC) and Coastal Plains are blazing in the summertime. However, the state has a lush landscape with Southern Pines, Magnolias, Oak and numerous native plants that provide plenty of shelter from the sun.

Unlike your previous home, North Carolina has considerably milder winters. Western Carolina receives snowfall, but the central and eastern regions rarely dip into the single digits. The planting and growing season begins much earlier in the south due to the warm climate.

Cost of Living

North Carolina’s state taxes are higher than New York’s, but the cost of living in NC is much lower than the national average. Larger cities such as Charlotte and Raleigh have higher costs of living, but the small towns and rural areas have lower prices on food and housing. You’ll notice a stark difference in the restaurant, alcohol and living costs in NC. With the money you spend on a home in NY, you can purchase a larger house with more acreage in the southern state.

The Southern Cuisine

Your northern taste buds are in for a treat when you reach North Carolina. NC’s famous pulled pork barbecue restaurants are often featured on national cooking programs, and the fresh seafood from the coast and outer banks is unforgettable. Sweet tea, sweet potato fries, Brunswick stew and barbecue sandwiches are regional favorites that you’ll find in every county.

The Coast Plains and Outer Banks

North Carolina is split into three distinct topographical zones: the Coastal Plains (east), the Piedmont (central) and the Mountains (west). The Coastal Plains of NC include the coastal islands and extend west for around 140 miles. Highlights of the region include scenic beach towns like Emerald Isle, Wrightsville Beach and Atlantic Beach.

If you’re tired of beaches saturated with high-rise condos, excessive traffic and large crowds, you can visit Ocracoke Island. It has a local culture and dialect unique to the island, and it’s famous for its excellent surfing, fishing and quiet beaches. If you have a bicycle, bring it along. Motor vehicles are prohibited on the island to preserve the environment.

The North Carolina Mountains

Even if your new home is located in the east, you shouldn’t wait long to visit Western NC. The North Carolina mountains, home to famous films like the Hunger Games, are undeniably breathtaking and unforgettable. You can hike a section of the Appalachian Trail that runs into the Smokey Mountains or marvel at the beauty of Linville gorge or Fontana Dam.

For professional help moving from New York to North Carolina, you can contact White Glove Moving. They specialize in relocating residents in New York and New Jersey.