According to the report, “Three cities from North Carolina took leading spots in the top 20. Specifically, Charlotte and Raleigh ranked first and second, while Greensboro ranked fifth. Both Charlotte and Raleigh are among the fastest-growing large cities in the nation, and their climates and affordability play pivotal roles in their popularity.”
To compile the ranking, the site analyzed all US cities with populations greater than 150,000 and organized them based on current housing expenses and a variety of climates factors. They then focused on cities where homeowners earning a median income would spend no more than 30% of their earnings on monthly housing payments, then compared those numbers to how many days per year are clear; how many days reach extreme temperatures; and how rainy and windy they are.
Key takeaways:
Charlotte and Raleigh ranked #1 and #2 in our top as the best options for homeowners looking for affordability and mild weather.
The two North Carolina cities register fewer uncomfortably hot days per year than most cities in the top, as well as moderate numbers of days with freezing temperatures.
With a median income of almost $63K and a median home sale price of $298K, Charlotte residents need to budget around 29% of their earnings for monthly housing payments.
Raleigh is a more economical option compared to Charlotte, as homebuyers here are looking at an affordability index of 21% – the median income here is $67K against a $230K median home sale price.
Ranking #5 in the top 20, Greensboro is one of the best options for gentle summers out of the batch, with an affordability index of 23%.
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