North Carolina is one of the most beautiful states, known for its friendly people and stunning scenery. But if you’re moving there and looking for homes for sale in North Carolina or plan on visiting regularly, you should know a few things first.
Health Insurance
One of the most important things to consider before moving to North Carolina is insurance. In most places, health insurance is considered mandatory, but in North Carolina, most people opt out of it. That means you may have to pay for your health insurance yourself, or pay with cash when you visit a physician in the state. However, there are exceptions for those with HSA and MSA coverage through their employers. Check with the state’s department of insurance to see what is and isn’t covered by insurance, and try to get full coverage before you move.
Culture
One of the most important things to know about North Carolina is its culture. The state is a part of the South, so it has many of the same customs and traditions as other parts of the country. Make sure to try the local dishes, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you’re not familiar with an item on a menu. Also, be sure to visit museums and cultural sites, and learn as much as you can about North Carolina’s history. You’ll enjoy the state more knowing more about its culture.
Education
Another thing you should know about North Carolina is its high education level. The state has one of the highest literacy rates in the country, with nearly 90% of the adult population considered literate. In 2012, North Carolina graduated more students with a bachelor’s degree than any other state in the country, and its four-year graduation rate was also among the highest in the nation. The average household income in North Carolina is also among the highest in the country, which might explain why 75% of the state’s residents think that higher education is extremely or very important for successful living. Schools in the state also receive a lot of praise for their innovation and technology, which help to make teaching more efficient and effective. So, if you’re moving to North Carolina with your kids, be sure to consider their education a key priority.
Parks
One of the most beautiful parts of North Carolina is its many state parks. The state is known for its scenic byways and its beautiful coastline, and it preserves many of these areas as parks. Be sure to bring your swimsuits with you whenever you go swimming at a state park, but make sure you remember to put them in your car before you head to the beach. Some of the state parks are particularly beautiful, so be sure to make the most of their breathtaking views by taking a lot of photos. Remember: if you want to keep their scenic beauty, you need to preserve the area as a park.
Hurricanes
Another thing you should know about North Carolina is its intense hurricanes. The Atlantic Ocean is a very big place, and most people consider a tropical storm or hurricane to be lesser-known cousins of a major volcanic eruption. Be sure to prepare for storms; if you are in an area that is prone to hurricanes, like near the coast or in the mid-Atlantic, be sure to install a few extra layers of clothing and prepare your home for the impending weather apocalypse. If you’re going to be in an area that is prone to severe weather, like near an active volcano, you may also want to consider staying indoors during strong winds and heavy rain.
Climate
Depending on where you’re going to live in North Carolina, winter or summer is the time to be aware of the climate. The farther north you go, the colder it gets, and vice versa. Be sure to layer up on cold days, and make sure to shed a layer when you head outdoors. The best time of year for a North Carolina vacation is in the spring or summer, when the weather is pleasant and you can wear lots of layers. Visit the beaches in the summer and winter, but make sure to check the weather in both cases so you don’t get snowed out or soaked by the rain.
