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5 Reasons to Move to Triangle East, NC

Discover what makes Smithfield, Selma and the other communities of Triangle East a great place to live.

By Kelly Rogers on February 28, 2024

Downtown Smithfield, NC
Johnston County Visitors Bureau

In the Triangle East region of North Carolina, you won’t just find a place to live; you’ll discover communities that are waiting to welcome you with open arms – a place where affordability, central location, business opportunities, new developments and small-town charm converge to create a truly inviting home. Discover why it may be the perfect time to move to Smithfield, Selma and the Triangle East region of North Carolina. 

1. You Can Afford to Live Here

In a world where every penny counts, Triangle East stands out for its relatively affordable cost of living, especially in comparison to larger neighboring cities like Raleigh. For instance, if you move to Smithfield, you’ll enjoy a town that is 15% less expensive than the national average, according to the Economic Research Institute, making the city an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between quality of life and budget. The housing market, too, offers a diverse range of options, from cozy rural retreats to vibrant urban spaces, ensuring something for everyone. 

2. You Can Easily Get There from Here 

Situated just 30 miles from Raleigh, Triangle East enjoys the perks of proximity to a major city while retaining its distinct charm. This central location means residents can easily access big city amenities, such as high-end dining experiences and varied entertainment options. Moreover, being nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Appalachian Mountains makes the region an ideal starting point for family trips and weekend getaways, offering a varied range of landscapes to explore. 

3. Your Business Will Thrive in the Triangle East

In 2023, CNBC named North Carolina as America’s Top State for Business, and the Triangle East region is a testament to this accolade. With an emphasis on advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and warehousing and distribution, businesses that choose to operate in this area find success in their industry. For residents, this not only translates to excellent job opportunities, but also contributes to the region’s dynamic, forward-thinking atmosphere and overall economy. 

Old North State Food Hall in Selma, NC
Forrest Mason

4. Be a Part of the Exciting Growth 

If you move to Smithfield and the Triangle East, you’ll enjoy a region that is experiencing notable growth, with exciting new developments shaping its future and pushing progress in dining, retail and housing. From the innovative Old North State Food Hall in Selma, which contains several unique vendors, to the sprawling Eastfield Crossing – a 3 million-square-foot master-planned, mixed-use business park development – the region is evolving. 

5. Experience Charming Small Towns

Triangle East is unique in that it largely consists of a collection of small towns, each with its own distinct personality. The communities of Archer Lodge, Kenly, Micro, Pine Level, Princeton, Selma and Wilson’s Mills all have populations under 7,000, fostering a sense of belonging and community ties that are hard to find in larger cities.

Smithfield and the Cleveland community boast larger populations, yet still don’t exceed 50,000 combined, ensuring that small-town charm remains a cornerstone of the region’s identity. 

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