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Winston-Salem, NC

Why You’ll Love Living in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

At the heart of North Carolina is a city inspired by industry and driven by innovation – Winston-Salem. A rich history in tobacco and textile manufacturing is woven seamlessly into the fabric of this future-forward North Carolina city that’s now identified by an outsized arts presence and world-renowned R&D. At the intersection of old and new, artistic and scientific, Winston-Salem doesn’t strike a happy medium – it holds these extremes and amplifies them. It’s a city with a vibe that you have to experience for yourself.

Thinking of moving to Winston-Salem, NC? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Winston-Salem, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Winston-Salem, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.

Courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem

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What Makes Winston-Salem, NC, a Best Place to Live in 2024

Winston, Salem, NC, offers plenty to get excited about. Its Southern charm and affordability are definitely a plus, but so are its cutting-edge business environment and arts and culture scene. For example, the city’s Innovation Quarter is doing important research in regenerative medicine in reimagined tobacco factories. Health care and education are also big employers in this city of nearly 252,000, and it’s easy to see why, with 15 hospitals and primary care medical facilities and several well-known schools such as Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem State University and Salem College (can you say talent pipeline?).

Beyond books and work, residents can enjoy an assortment of tasty places to wine and dine, museums, local boutiques and a bustling central business district. More than 75 restaurants and 30 bars and breweries are located in the downtown area alone! Winston-Salem also earned a spot on the list of the best places to live in the U.S. for its outdoor opportunities.

The city boasts more than 3,500 acres of parks and 25 miles of trails and greenways, making it a cinch to stay active. Water recreation is on tap (pun intended!) at Salem Lake, with a 7-mile trail along the 365-acre lake with both kayak and jon boat rentals.

Winston-Salem, NC Quality of Life LivScore

How We Calculate Our Data

Winston-Salem, NC Top Categories

Environment
Housing & Cost of Living
Transportation

Winston-Salem ranks highest for environment, housing and transportation.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Winston-Salem, NC

What is the weather like in Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem experiences four distinctive seasons. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are chilly and damp. Spring and fall are mild and cool. The average highs and lows are 86°F and 68°F (summer) and 51°F and 33°F (winter).

Does Winston-Salem get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Winston-Salem is relatively small compared to other parts of the country and averages out to roughly 3 inches a year.

Does Winston-Salem get a lot of rain?

The average annual rainfall in Winston-Salem is around 45 inches per year.

How many sunny days does Winston-Salem get?

Winston-Salem averages 214 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Winston-Salem?

Old Salem is a historic Moravian village nestled on the edge of downtown. The Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a living history museum and historic site that combats food insecurity and focuses on the stories of people, including Moravian, Black and indigenous people tied to the region. Grab homemade Moravian cookies from Winkler Bakery and walk around the scenic village. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another era.

Winston-Salem, NC is among the Top 100 best cities to live in America — Salem Lake in Winston Salem, NC, offers a 7-mile trail along the 365-acre lake with both kayak and jon boat rentals.

Things To Do in Winston-Salem, NC

What is something free to do in Winston-Salem?

In the heart of Innovation Quarter is Bailey Park, a public greenspace that often hosts free yoga classes, food trucks, festivals and movie presentations. Then, spend your afternoon walking around the downtown district. Do it for the ‘gram! The Downtown Arts District is the best place to spot some of the city’s many murals and public art installations.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem’s youngest residents can spend time at Kaleideum, a children’s museum that blends art and science. It is opening a brand-new museum in the heart of downtown.

What is the best open secret about Winston-Salem?

Reynolda Gardens, part of Wake Forest University, is often overlooked but well worth a visit. The community’s beautifully landscaped gardens, walking trails and historic Reynolda House Museum of American Art are hidden gems.

Where do locals shop in Winston-Salem?

Walnut & Broad is a new retail and mixed-use project space near historic Old Salem Museums & Gardens. Body and Soul is a cultural gift shop that celebrates African American culture, from books and skincare to art and clothing imported from or inspired by Africa.

Where is the best place to eat in Winston-Salem?

In the West End neighborhood, Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro specializes in Southern fare with a twist. Serving lunch, dinner and brunch, Mozelle’s offers a range of dishes, from shrimp and grits to vegetarian options like tomato pie.

Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Winston-Salem?

Tucked away in the Industry Hill neighborhood near a smattering of great restaurants, The Ramkat is the place to be if you want to enjoy a night of live music, from country and indie to jazz and cover bands.

What is the best coffee shop in Winston-Salem?

Krankies Coffee roasts its own beans in the heart of downtown. With plenty of outdoor seating, visitors can enjoy freshly made coffee drinks along with specialty biscuits and sandwiches.

The Local and State Economy in Winston-Salem, NC

What are the three largest industries in Winston-Salem?

Health care and life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and education are three of the top industries in Winston-Salem. HanesBrands, Reynolds American Inc. and BB&T Corp. are all headquartered in Winston-Salem. Even better? The beloved Krispy Kreme Doughnuts were founded in Winston-Salem in 1937.

What is the sales tax rate in Winston-Salem?

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Winston-Salem is 7%.

Does North Carolina have a state income tax?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax.

Who are the major health care providers in Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem is home to several high-performing health care providers. Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is a nationally ranked academic medical center that provides advanced health care services. Novant Health is a network of hospitals and medical centers in the area. Finally, Forsyth Medical Center is a leading hospital that offers comprehensive medical services.

What colleges and universities are in Winston-Salem?

There are several colleges and universities in Winston-Salem, including Wake Forest University and Winston-Salem State, a top-ranking HBCU.