Thinking about moving to the Southeast? Affordable homes, Southern hospitality, beautiful weather, and comfort food await. These are the best places to live in the Southeast based on housing prices, crime rates, employment opportunities, and fun local amenities!
| Cities | Population | Median Purchase Price | Median Monthly Rent | Safer than % of U.S. Cities | Unemployment Rate |
| Alpharetta, GA | 66,566 | $447,400 | $1,464 | 44% | 4% |
| Charleston, SC | 137,041 | $349,000 | $1,318 | 28% | 2.3% |
| Charlotte, NC | 873,570 | $235,000 | $1,185 | 7% | 3.5% |
| Franklin, TN | 80,675 | $438,800 | $1,553 | 57% | 2.1% |
| Huntsville, AL | 199,845 | $184,500 | $868 | 39% | 3.2% |
| Nashville, TN | 667,070 | $264,600 | $1,170 | 2% | 3.4% |
| Raleigh, NC | 469,698 | $266,900 | $1,175 | 18% | 3% |
| Richmond, VA | 229,233 | $244,200 | $1,070 | 19% | 4.2% |
| Tampa, FL | 395,912 | $254,600 | $1,178 | 22% | 3.8% |
Alpharetta, GA
One of the best suburbs of Atlanta, the vibrant city of Alpharetta provides residents easy commutes and safe, affordable living near Atlanta. You’ll find Alpharetta housing options ranging from budget-friendly apartments to lakeside homes on Lake Windward, as well as top-rated schools like Lake Windward Elementary School, Webb Bridge Middle School, and Alpharetta High School. Thanks to the growing Alpharetta job market, locals can find employment opportunities with top Alpharetta employers like Halyard Health, Hegemon Group International, and Atrium Hospitality. In addition, residents can take advantage of the city’s great shopping, dining, and annual events like Taste of Alpharetta and Alpharetta Arts Streetfest.
Things to Do in Alpharetta
See local productions of plays and musicals like Tuck Everlasting, A Little Princess, or Little Women, the Musical at Act1 Theater. Attend outdoor concerts featuring groups like Nickelback and Arctic Monkeys—or watch the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra perform at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. Go for a jog, try rollerblading, or bike along miles of trail at The Big Creek Greenway. Gather every Friday night from April through October to catch live music from Atlanta-based country artists and ’80s rock bands at Avalon Nights Live. Chow down Braised Angus Short Rib, Spiced Duck Confit, or a Soul Burger at Citizen Soul. Dig in to Crawfish Mac & Cheese, a Bayou Salad, or Gumbo while sampling any of the dozens of bourbon offerings at Flatlands Bourbon & Bayou. Try award-winning Southern-style BBQ favorites like Fried Pickles, a Chopped Beef Brisket Sandwich, or a Pulled Pork Plate at Smokejack BBQ. Or savor flavorful Italian cuisine like Penne Cieli, Baked Ziti, or a Bianco Pizza at Crust Pasta & Pizzeria.
Charleston, SC
Charleston is not only one of the best cities in the Southeast, but it’s also earned accolades like best cities for year-round weather and best cities for retirees! This coastal city is a paradise for water lovers with its location on Charleston Harbor and close proximity to nearby beaches like Folly Beach and Isle of Palms Beach. On land, there are also plenty of outdoor things to do in Charleston, like exploring the site of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie or marveling at the ancient branches of the Angel Oak. On top of that, you’ll find plenty of historical charm in Charleston homes, from the colorful rowhouses of Rainbow Row to the city’s charming Colonial homes—many of which are surrounded by great schools like Oakland Elementary School and James Island Charter High School!
Things to Do in Charleston
Visit the Sea Turtle Care Center or explore exhibits like The Shallows and Saltmarsh Aviary to interact with native animals at the South Carolina Aquarium. Go bird-watching and bike on the nature trails at Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Enjoy fun in the sun with the whole family on the Aqua Park or Ropes Course—or sign the kids up for a summer camp at Charleston Aqua Park. Reserve a campsite or vacation cottage to try out the climbing wall and the 18-hole disc golf course in James Island County Park. Kick off your day at a small local cafe with the Crosstown Biscuit Sandwich, Brekkie Burger, or The Creole Combo at Little Line. Grab soul food like the Filet Whiting Meal, Cabbage Plate, or Lima Plate from Hannibal’s Kitchen. Start with the Mojo Pork Tacos before digging in to a Public House Burger or Gyro at Maybank Public House. Or dine on the waterfront and order She Crab Soup, the Lowcountry Seafood Pasta, and a Crab Claw Cocktail at Fleet Landing.
Charlotte, NC
The city of Charlotte isn’t just one of the best cities on the East Coast—it’s also one of the best places to live in the U.S. for young professionals! Not only does the Queen City offer warm weather, an affordable cost of living, and Southern hospitality, but the job market in Charlotte is also booming. Known as a hot spot for the financial industry, you can find a number of finance jobs in Charlotte with companies like Moore & Van Allen and Bank of America—the latter of which is one of the largest banking centers in the country! As far as Charlotte housing goes, you can find everything from high-rise condos and townhomes near Uptown Charlotte to cozy bungalows and Colonial-style homes just outside the city center.
Things to Do in Charlotte
Check out some of the most famous race cars in the history of the sport, sign your kids up for summer camp, or fulfill your need for speed in a racing simulator at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Hit the ropes courses, learn how to whitewater raft, or get your adrenaline fix mountain-biking through more than 40 miles of forest trails at U.S. National Whitewater Center. Bring the family for a fun and educational day exploring the indoor rainforest or watching captivating experiments up close at a live science show at Discovery Place Science. See art collections from Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder, and more at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Order Braised Beef Short Rib, NC Shrimp & Grits, or Pan Roasted Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes at Dressler’s. Get your seafood fix with a bowl of Clam Chowder, Southern Fried Oysters, or a Lobster Roll at Sea Level NC. Try comfort foods like Hand-Battered Chicken Tenders, Baby Back Ribs, or Chicken Fajitas at Uptown Charlotte restaurant, Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse. Or start off with the Goat Cheese & Mascarpone Dip before digging into a Chicken Oreganata Pizza or Lasagna at Mama Ricotta’s.
Franklin, TN
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, consider living in the Nashville suburb of Franklin, located just southeast of the iconic Natchez Trace Bridge! Even though Franklin is smaller than Nashville, residents will still have plenty of things to do. Downtown Franklin in particular has a variety of shops, restaurants, and fun events and festivals like Main Street Festival and Dickens of a Christmas for locals to enjoy. But that’s not all Franklin has to offer! The city’s growing job market is another perk, with opportunities among big employers like Community Health Systems, Nissan North America, and Acadia Healthcare. There are also great local schools in Franklin like Liberty Elementary School, Freedom Middle School, and Franklin High School!
Things to Do in Franklin
Explore a home that served as a makeshift hospital during The Civil War—where visitors have even claimed to experience paranormal activity—at Lotz House! Stock up on fruits, veggies, baked goods, and more at The Franklin Farmers Market. Catch a dance performance or watch a movie at the restored Franklin Theatre. Go fishing, swimming, canoeing, or kayaking on the Harpeth River via one of its many access sites. Stop for brunch to try the Chicken & Waffles, Brisket Benedict, or Huevos Rancheros at 55 South. Get a hearty meal built around Southern-style biscuits with dishes like the Southern Benny, S.E.C, or Biscuits & Gravy at Biscuit Love. Savor Irish favorites like Bangers and Mash or Dublin Pot Pie with an assortment of Irish whiskeys and beers at McCreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery. Or book a tour to sample spirits like the Old Natchez Trace TN White Whiskey, TN Whiskey Bottled in Bond, or Rye Whiskey Bottled in Bond at Leiper’s Fork Distillery.
Huntsville, AL
Searching for an affordable place to live in the Southeast? Consider moving to Huntsville! As one of the most affordable cities in the entire U.S., this Alabama city offers budget-friendly real estate with Mid-Century Modern ranches, two-story Colonial homes, and more. Huntsville is an ideal place for families to live, thanks to Huntsville City Schools—which has several schools ranked among the best in Alabama. Known as Rocket City, there are also great Huntsville job opportunities in aerospace and defense with institutions like NASA and the U.S. Army Space & Missile Defense Command. And with ample green space at spots like Monte Sano State Park and Big Spring International Park, residents will never run out of things to do in Huntsville!
Things to Do in Huntsville
Try the Moon Shot rocket launch simulator, sign your family up for Space Camp, or visit the Intuitive Planetarium at U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Learn about wetlands or go bird-watching while exploring the 118-acre Huntsville Botanical Garden. Discover more about World War I, see different types of military vehicles, and view war memorabilia from the Revolutionary War at the U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum. Head out to a ball game to root for the Rocket City Trash Pandas (MiLB) at Toyota Field. Visit the “Home of the Greasy Burger” for classic comfort foods like the Double H.B. Special, Slaw Bun, or Chili Dog at Big Spring Cafe. Grab a meal at an award-winning casual fine dining restaurant with a weekly rotating menu, Purveyor. Sample bold flavors with the Gator Bites, Cajun Melt Down, or Caribbean Jerk Sandwich at Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill. Or enjoy German delicacies like Liver & Onions, Veal Cordon Blue, or Geschnetzeltes with a side of Spatzle at Hildegard’s German Cuisine.
Nashville, TN
Not only is Nashville known for its country music roots as the home of the iconic Grand Ole Opry, but this Tennessee city also has a reputation for being one of the best places to live in America, thanks to its balance of amenities and promising prospects for Nashville jobs! Nashville housing spans everything from Craftsman-style bungalows to two-story Victorians and Colonials. The city also boasts an excellent higher education scene, with some of the best colleges and universities in the South—including Tennessee State University, Belmont University, and Vanderbilt University. And with a strong festival culture that includes Nashville Oktoberfest, CMA Fest, and Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival, you’ll always have something to look forward to while living in Nashville!
Things to Do in Nashville
Learn about the history of country music and explore a collection of over 40,000 country music films and videos dating back to the 1920s at Country Music Hall of Fame. See up-and-coming artists perform at the intimate 90-seat Bluebird Cafe. Cheer on pro sports teams like the Nashville Predators (NHL) at Bridgestone Arena and the Tennessee Titans (NFL) at Nissan Stadium. Walk the steps of the famous Parthenon replica, play sand volleyball, spend some time in the sunken garden, and see historical monuments at the 132-acre Centennial Park. Fill up on comfort foods like Mac & Cheese, a Spicy Sausage Rustic Pie, or the All-American Burger while drinking Mason jar cocktails at The Stillery. Experience Nashville Hot Chicken with The Sandwich at Mild, Medium, or “Shut the Cluck Up” heat level at Hattie B’s. Try fine dining in Downtown Nashville with options like the Focaccia Sheet, Pan-Seared Trout, or Pork Duo at Stationairy. Or dance the night away to live music on the dance floor after you chow down an order of Shrimp Linguini with a Cucumber Gimlet to drink at Sambuca.
Raleigh, NC
There are many reasons why North Carolina’s capital city, Raleigh, is one of the best places to live in the South as well as one of the best big cities to live in the U.S. From its growing downtown area to its abundant outdoor recreation, Raleigh is a top place to live in the Southeast! As part of the Research Triangle (alongside neighboring cities, Chapel Hill and Durham), Raleigh is one of the best cities for jobs and home to some of the best employers in the area—including IBM, Cisco Systems, and Lenovo. And if you’re a sports fan, Raleigh might be a perfect fit for you, as you can support great teams like the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) at Lenovo Center, North Carolina FC (USL) at WakeMed Soccer Park, and the Carolina Mudcats (MiLB) at nearby Five County Stadium. Not to mention, you’ll love living in Raleigh for its fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities at William B. Umstead State Park and Carl Alwin Schenck Memorial Forest.
Things to Do in Raleigh
Check out unique exhibitions like Golden Mummies of Egypt and Venice and the Ottoman Empire at the North Carolina Museum of Art. See prehistoric beasts, explore the depths of space, or watch a film at the WRAL 3D Theater at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Ride the ferris wheel, listen to live music, compete in horse shows or livestock competitions, and eat delicious fair food at the North Carolina State Fair. Find a wide selection of shops, excellent dining options, and events like the Farmers Market or Wellness Wednesdays at North Hills. Experience Lebanese flavors with Baba Ghanouj, Kafta Kabob, or Lamb Chops at Sitti. Treat yourself to comfort dishes like Fried Chicken, Chicken Pot Pie, and the Crispy Carolina Catfish at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey. Dine on Italian-American favorites like Gnocchi, Frutti Di Mare, or Spaghetti Alla Carbonara at Gravy. Or try the BBQ Mahi Tacos, Cabo Burger, and Salmon Veracruz at Salt & Lime Cabo Grill.
Richmond, VA
Thinking about living in Richmond? This Virginia city is a wonderful option for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike! City highlights like the Richmond National Battlefield Park and The American Civil War Museum provide ample opportunities for residents to learn and experience American history in their own backyards. In the heart of the city sits the 100-acre Maymont Park, which offers fun outdoor things to do in Richmond with its nature center, expansive gardens, Gilded Age mansion, and other amenities. In addition, families will enjoy easy access to top-rated Richmond schools like Jacob L. Adams Elementary School, Albert Hill Middle School, and Open High School. The city is even home to top higher education opportunities at the University of Richmond!
Things to Do in Richmond
Admire charming local architecture while shopping at over 30 local Richmond businesses at Stony Point Fashion Park. Tour the permanent collection with works from cultures all over the world—including East Asian, African, and Indigenous American Art—at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. See a concert on the lawn—or book a tour to understand life in Virginia throughout history at the Wilton House Museum. Explore the wildlife of James River and Chesapeake Bay through interactive features like River Reach and Digital Pool Touch Stations at The Robins Nature Center. Start your day with breakfast specials like The Hathaway—or enjoy a Salmon Cake or Scrapple at Eat 66. Experience a Richmond restaurant that offers a taste of the tropics with an Ipanema Sandwich, Crab Spaghetti, or a Poke Bowl at Little Nickel. Order a Black Bean Burger, Homemade Meatloaf, or the Crispy Eggplant from The Hill Cafe. Or get in on the secrets of the Van Buren, Lady Bird, or Churchill Sandwich at Secret Sandwich Society.
Tampa, FL
Considering moving to Florida? Check out the bayside city of Tampa! Despite being a large city with fantastic amenities, the Big Guava still maintains a low unemployment rate and a cost of living that’s on par with the national average. With large Mediterranean-style homes in Tampa and highly-rated schools like MacFarlane Park Elementary School, Wilson Middle School, and Plant High School, Tampa is a hot spot for families. It’s also an ideal city for retired military personnel, as the city offers close proximity to MacDill Air Force Base, plus there’s no state income tax! In addition, this dog-friendly city in Florida is home to an abundance of golf courses, parks, and lakes, and it’s just a short drive away from the beaches of Clearwater and St. Petersburg, so there’s always plenty of fun to be had outdoors!
Things to Do in Tampa
Take a wild dolphin cruise, watch the jellyfish in Moon Bay, touch a cownose ray at Stingray Beach, and more at The Florida Aquarium. Spend a day on a safari to interact with sloths and giraffes, get your high-speed thrills on rollercoasters like Cobra’s Curse and Falcons Fury, or check out the Congo River Rapids at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. See the most recent planetarium show, test your piloting skills in the Flight Club Drone Zone, or experience virtual reality at the Museum of Science & Industry. Root for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) at Raymond James Stadium, catch a Tampa Bay Rays (MLB) baseball game at Tropicana Field, or get loud for the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) at Amalie Arena. Order classic Indian dishes like Tandoori Lamb Chops, Goan Fish Curry, or Chicken Tikka Masala at Flames Indian Cuisine. Eat Native American-inspired dishes like Native Chili, Gouda Grouper, and Fire-Roasted Chicken at Ulele. Try seafood in Tampa at restaurants like The Pearl Tampa—and order the Atlantic Salmon, Gulf Snapper, Sea Scallops, and more. Or chow down BBQ favorites like a Half Slab of Ribs or Sparky’s Pulled Pork Sandwich with Ericka’s Spicy Collard Greens on the side at Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que.
***
Moving to the Southeast? Extra Space Storage has convenient self storage facilities throughout the Southeastern U.S., so we can help make your transition easy. Find cheap storage near you!
City statistics from AreaVibes
