Forbes published a list of Best Places For Business And Careers. In Top 10 they named two NC cities: Raleigh (2nd place) and Durham (8th place.)
Forbes took into consideration the living expenses, including housing, transportation, food and other household expenses. Also considered were the job and income growth, as well as migration over the last 5 years. Crime rate and leisure opportunities (such as museums, theaters, golf courses, sports teams) were taken into consideration. Opportunites for further education and major college presense also considered.