With almost 880,000 residents making it the most populated city in North Carolina, these people already know why everyone should move to Charlotte. It is the third-fastest-growing major city in the U.S., and with good reason as between 2004 and 2014, Charlotte was ranked as the country's fastest-growing metro area, with 888,000 new residents, and between 2005 and 2015, the city topped the U.S. in millennial population growth. Let's find out what makes The Queen City so popular.

1. Employment

Listed as one of the top 25 tech cities by job-posting volume and job-posting growth, employment is the No. 1 reason to move to Charlotte. See which employers are hiring.

2. Schools

And if you have children, with 670 preschools, 229 elementary schools, 116 middle schools, and 82 high schools, Charlotte schools are ranked above average with some of the top-ranked schools in the area. Find out more about Charlotte's schools

3. Rafting

The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers more than 30 different recreational activities hosting international competitions in a variety of sports and festivals, and other events. From family rafting to rodeo rafting, find a fit for you.

4. Hiking

Charlotte offers 78 outdoor trails with a variety of attractions and skill levels. Check out the deer walking through Little Sugar Creek Greenway at Huntington Farms Park. This is an easy, 5-mile out-and-back trail perfect for hikers and bikers. As you can see, there is always a great reason to keep your camera ready.

5. Dining

All of this recreation builds up a good appetite and Charlotte offers an abundance of excellent dining options, such as 300 East. This lovely eatery is open seven days a week with weekend brunch.

Try the bronzed sesame salmon with shoyu glaze, brown rice, and sautéed kale.

And the desserts here are amazing, such as the Duke’s Mayo caramel cake baked fresh with sugared pecans and caramel sauce. Be sure to make a reservation.

6. Music

Check out the year-round events at the PNC Music Pavilion, which is near the University of North Carolina. From heavy metal to rock-n-roll and country, you are sure to find something you like in this fantastic venue.

7. Ballet

To experience ballet at its finest, reserve tickets to Charlotte Ballet, which has received national critical recognition for excellence in education, outreach, programming, and dance training.

8. Visual Arts

Established in 1936, The Mint Museum boasts one of the largest collections in the Southeast. It is accessible by two locations: Uptown and Randolph.

9. NASCAR

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive adventure honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR.

10. Sports

For the sports fans out there, Charlotte is also home to the Carolina Panthers of the NFL, and the Charlotte Hornets of the NBA. For an exciting event, be sure to book a ticket to support these local teams.

11. Airport

With Charlotte Douglas International Airport in your backyard, the sky's the limit on travel. Whether it is for business or fun, your destination awaits right here in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Do you see why everyone should move to Charlotte?  Pack a bag for a weekend stay to experience this exciting North Carolina city for yourself. And while you're there, visit some of the best flea markets for a great shopping adventure.