All things considered, North Carolina is a relatively big state. With 100 counties and 53,819 square miles, it can be a daunting task to become familiar with every little town. Thankfully, you don't have to do that. But if you're thinking of moving any time soon, then you'll at least want to familiarize yourself with the 10 safest cities in North Carolina. Safewise is a company so obsessed with home security that it analyzes cities all over the country each year based on crime statistics reported to the FBI so it can determine the safest cities in every state. A report from Safewise actually lists the top 87 safest cities in North Carolina. The top 10 are below.
More than half of the cities on this list have a population exceeding 20,000, whereas in other states, most of the top 10 safest cities are very small. Morrisville is no different, with a population of 28,796. All 10 of the cities on the list have one thing in common: in the figures reported to the FBI regarding violent crimes taking place all of the cities have ratings below 1. Morrisville's current rate of violent crimes is 0.4 instances per 1,000 residents. While any sort of violent crime is bad, that's still a respectable statistic. The city's property crime rate is 13.2. You will feel nice and safe in Morrisville, North Carolina.
In 1963, the two towns of Fuquay Springs and Varina merged to create this hyphenated town name. The city's mayor, John Byrne, has held the office since 2001. Byrne's father played for the New York Yankees. Fuquay-Varina's population has spiked under Byrne's tenure from right around 7,900 in the year 2001 to 30,977 in 2021. In spite of the growth, the community retains a nice small-town feel, with loads of green space and parks throughout. Fuquay-Varina is a beautiful town to live in with your family.
With a population of 9,922, Winterville and its small historic district is impressive, with 102 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Speaking of buildings, the town's property crime rate is decently low at 8.7 instances per 1,000 residents (per year). If you are looking for a nice, new place to move, Winterville is an excellent choice.
The third Wake County town (so far) on the list of Top 10 Safest Places To Live In North Carolina is Wendell, with a population of 8,096 residents. It's located 20 miles due east of Raleigh, so living here is like having the best of both worlds with a small town and a big city both at your fingertips at all times. Wendell's violent crime rate sits at 0.7 instances per 1,000 residents (per year), a respectable figure. If you like being close to the city but away from the fray, then you will really like living in Wendell, North Carolina.
The seventh-largest city in the state is ranked number six among the safest places to live in the Tar Heel State. It's also a Wake County location, making four of the bottom five located in Wake County. Cary's violent crime rate is 0.7 and property crime rate dips below double digits to a solid 9. The statistics in Cary, North Carolina are truly impressive.
Home to the liberal arts college of the same name, Davidson has a population of 13,193 which no doubt enjoys its close proximity to Charlotte (about 20 miles away). Another thing Davidson enjoys is the top spot for earnings on this list of Top 10. The median annual household income for Davidson is $128,255. Property crimes here rate a 9.2; while violent crimes occur at a rate of 0.6 instances per 1,000 residents per year. People who are lucky enough to live in Davidson, North Carolina can consider themselves lucky indeed!
North Carolina has some pretty large cities on this list. The population of Wake Forest is 46,145, much larger than the average small towns featured in other states. In spite of its size, Wake Forest retains a relatively small violent crime rate of 0.5 instances per 1,000 residents per year. These statistics make it one of the best safe cities in North Carolina. That's certainly commendable! We are considerably impressed with the lovely town of Wake Forest, North Carolina.
The Village of Pinehurst has a year-round population of 16,522 which, no doubt, enjoys the easy access to the resort found here. Pinehurst Resort was established in 1895, the Village of Pinehurst was established in 1980. The violent crime rate here is 0.7 and the property crime rate is 6.8. Now those are some amazing statistics for the town of Pinehurst, North Carolina!
Part of the Burlington MSA, Elon has a population of 12,214. The town is home to Elon University, ranked #88 in the country in 2021 by U.S. News and World Report for the Best Universities in the U.S. As far as crime goes, Elon earns an impressively low violent crime rate of 0.7 instances per 1,000 residents per year. Property crimes are equally low, at 6.7. If you're interested in a vibrant town with plenty to recommend it, check out Elon, North Carolina.
And the number one safest city to live in North Carolina is Holly Springs! Wake County seems to have something in the water, making it an extra safe place to live, as Holly Springs is the fifth city on this list of 10 that is located, at least in part, in Wake County. The southwest quadrant of Raleigh seems to be extra safe as well, as Holly Springs in located just seven miles up the road from another city on this list: Fuquay-Varina. In terms of crimes, Holly Springs has the lowest crime rate in North Carolina for property crimes (6.6) and it has the third lowest violent crime rate (0.6). Congratulations to Holly Springs, North Carolina!
If you were wondering "what are the safest cities in North Carolina?" then now you know! Did your city make the cut? Have you heard of all of these cities before today? And lastly, were you surprised at some of the larger cities that made this list? Sound off in the comments section! We found the fact that big cities made this list to be particularly impressive, given that large cities sometimes can develop reputations for more crime than small towns. We are happy to report that North Carolina keeps so many of its towns of all sizes nice and safe for its residents and visitors.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Since 1994, Civil War Trails in North Carolina has worked with people we may know - historians, volunteers, and storytellers from our local communities. The nonprofit started with some interested historians to link the sites of Robert E. Lee’s retreat from Petersburg, Virginia, to his surrender at Appomattox. Storytelling efforts have successfully connected intrigued visitors with small towns across a network of six states on more than 1,200 sites. Walk in the footsteps of the commanders, soldiers, — our descendants. This community-driven approach tells human-interest stories in organized and unforgettable ways. Let's look at a few stops along the North Carolina trails.
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The incredibly detailed map-guides for each state identify the historic sites like this page from North Carolina.
The state has at least 200 sites followable by driving routes and state park indicators. Many of the destinations offer surrounding activities. Download the pdf on the Civil War Trails website. The following five sites are just a few of the fascinating stops along the tour.
This early 1800s plantation is in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. Hear stories about the women and men who were enslaved by the Vances on the tour of a 1790s slave dwelling. And learn about the reconstructed birthplace of Zebulon B. Vance. Read other details on the Vance Birthplace web page.
Another note of interest involves this 26th North Carolina Regimental Band, C.S.A from Salem.
In 1862, Bandleader Samuel Mickey offered the band's talent to Col. Vance which was accepted into the 26th NC Regiment. The band members pictured here sometime between 1861 and 1865 include from left: S. T. Mickey, A. P. Gibson, J. O. Hall, W. H. Hall, A. L. Hauser, D. T. Crouse, J. A. Leinbach, and James M. Fisher.
This farmhouse once sat between the headquarters of Confederate Gen. Joseph E. Johnston (Greensboro) and Union Gen. William T. Sherman (Raleigh). In April 1865, the two commanders met at the Bennett Place where they signed surrender papers. Read more about the site on this interesting Bennett Place Facebook post.
The historic site has several buildings and an Underground Railroad that tell the stories of significant events, such as this 1838 Jail. Attend the annual Halifax Resolves Days that takes place in April when historic interpreters tell interesting stories of what happened here. Keep updated on the Historic Halifax Facebook page.
A self-guided walking tour or guided tour tells where 15,000 soldiers bravely fought for our country in the famous Dec. 17, 1862 battle. Learn the history on the Goldsborough Bridge Battlefield website.
Built in 1838, this historic building was constructed on the site of the old state house and town hall that burned in 1831. Market House was once a slave market and a plaque on the site sits as a reminder of that horrific time.
Plan a vacation, print the map, grab a highlighter, and go!
There’s always something new to see and do along the trail, so stay tuned as the program continues to grow.
Civil War Trails in North Carolina offers more information on the website. These trails give easy access to authentic details of the war in America from April 12, 1861, through the spring of 1865, leaving an estimated 620,000 dead and thousands of others injured.
Read about another fascinating stop along the way: Kinston Battlefield Park. As you travel through the state, find some lodging and reserve ahead on Expedia.com.
