Discover the Triangle East Region of North Carolina
If you're thinking about moving to eastern North Carolina, here are nine excellent communities to consider.
Nine unique communities make up the Triangle East region of North Carolina, each with something special to offer. Peruse these fun facts and interesting tidbits to get a better idea of each community’s compelling qualities.
In This Article
Archer Lodge
Largely a farming community, Archer Lodge is family-oriented and tight-knit. The Archer Lodge Parks & Recreation department provides ample opportunities for kids to participate in sports, which makes up a big component of social gatherings. The town also hosts an annual Christmas celebration, with a vibrant parade that residents look forward to each year.
Cleveland
This unincorporated area has a population of 29,466, but it feels more like a small, tight-knit community. So much so, in fact, that it has affectionately been dubbed, “The Cleveland Community.” This robust suburban area exemplifies a spirit of togetherness and neighborly love – it’s no wonder the area is experiencing such significant growth! It’s also ideally located, with access to I-40, close proximity to I-95 and the future I-42.
Kenly
This town has earned itself a fun nickname: Friendly Kenly! Aptly named, it speaks to the welcoming nature of its residents, who are always willing to lend a helping hand. Kenly is home to the Kenly 95 Petro, a truck stop with amenities galore and a larger-than-life sign that’s a one-third scale replica of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – you can’t miss it!
Micro
A self-proclaimed “small town with a big heart,” Micro is technically the smallest town in the Triangle East region, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality. Micro has some excellent eats worth mentioning, especially the new Waffee Station, which makes Belgian waffles from scratch. The Olde Towne Steakhouse is another Micro staple, known for its down-home atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks.
Pine Level
This town just celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2023. Clearly a place that honors its historical roots, it also has reason to boast about its literal roots, thanks to the Hinnant Family Vineyards and Winery. It’s the largest muscadine vineyard in the state, and attracts a plethora of visitors and fans, as it’s a popular stop on Johnston County’s Beer, Wine and Shine Trail.
Princeton
Princeton’s identity centers around what residents have deemed the four Ps: “Peaceful, Pleasant, Progressive and Proud.” Alliteration aside, this small town lives up to its core values, offering a truly pristine setting to call home. Geographically speaking, Princeton is well-located, conveniently placed between the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and the Research Triangle Park.
Selma
The second-largest town in Triangle East, Selma has much to offer, including an incredible downtown full of delicious eats, shops, antiques and more. Selma is the site of the historic Union Depot, and Amtrak makes stops there. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, from the multiple murals that can be found around town to the local art at Strickland Art Gallery to the Rudy Theatre, which features live entertainment.
Smithfield
Smithfield is the county seat, with around 12,000 residents. Somehow, this town seamlessly blends history, natural beauty and modern convenience all in one beautiful package. The historic downtown is home to beautiful architecture and several festivals throughout the year, including the Smithfield Ham & Yam Festival and the Ava Gardner Festival. Also downtown are the Neuse River and adjacent Buffalo Creek Greenway, which provides a 10-foot-wide path for walking, running and biking. Additionally, Smithfield is home to Carolina Premium Outlets, a shopping destination that attracts shoppers from near and far.
Wilson’s Mills
Wilson’s Mills is a community that actively invites residents to contribute their voices and efforts to make the town an even greater place to live for all involved. Its motto is “Working together to promote and protect quality of life,” which it seems to be doing very well. From asking for input about the proposed Bike & Pedestrian Plan (made possible by a North Carolina Department of Transportation grant) to hosting community blood drives, Wilson’s Mills is committed to walking the walk.
Get to Know the Triangle East
Want to learn more about living and working in Smithfield, Selma and the Triangle East region? Check out the latest edition of Livability Triangle East, North Carolina.