#16: North Carolina

Unemployment rate: 30

Economy: 31

Education: 32

Crime: 35

North Carolina offers a balanced lifestyle with its mix of urban innovation and rural charm. The state’s economy thrives on technology, banking, and agriculture, with Charlotte serving as a financial hub and the Research Triangle excelling in tech and education.

Residents enjoy diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Outer Banks. Outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and exploring scenic byways are abundant. The education system includes top-ranked universities like Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, and NC State.