Nonresidents eye Raleigh for their next dream move

A report from Coldwell Banker Real Estate’s Move Meter tool, which gathers data from cities across the US, ranks Raleigh as the No. 7 searched dream move city.

The Raleigh skyline on a nice day.

Some say... cough ChatGPT cough... that Raleigh’s weather is unpredictable.

Photo by RALtoday

According to new data from Coldwell Banker Real Estate’s Move Meter tool, some big-city dwellers are eyeing new dream move destinations to settle down in, including Raleigh.

A year’s worth of data including cost and quality of living was collected for the campaign, revealing that Raleigh is the No. 7 most searched place that Americans are dreaming of moving to. Charlotte came in the No. 2 spot and was the only other NC city listed.

The real estate company’s Move Meter tool compares where you currently live to other locations in the US to help movers find their dream home. The City of Oaks is our dream city, for sure.

Whether you’re new to Raleigh or just looking for the best coffee shops, check out our City Guide page for insider info.

More from RALtoday
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
If you’re looking for plans to bring in the new year, Raleigh is bustling with events. Explore each event and plan where you’ll bring in 2025.
Sponsored
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
For the first time since 1990, you can back the Pack in the NCAA men’s soccer finals — and it’s all happening in Cary.
If you’re a fan of real trees over artificial, this list is for you. We’re highlighting 10 local spots to pick up Christmas trees in Raleigh, including home delivery options, pre-flocked trees, and NC-famous Fraser firs.
Our readers have spoken — here are the best local spots our city has to offer, from the best coffee shop to the best apartment complex to the best dentist.
Hi Raleighite. It’s that time of year again — Spotify Wrapped is out, and so is ours. Ready to see how our year stacked up?
A grassroots effort is helping central NC properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.