With four seasons, an overall moderate climate and the diversity of the mountains and beaches within a day’s drive from our area, it’s no wonder the Piedmont area of North Carolina has garnered so much attention. From retirees looking for an alternative to the sweltering heat and hurricanes of Florida to young professionals seeking an affordable, safe environment to raise their families, people of all ages are discovering the many benefits of our area.

The four major towns in our area that serve the majority of our customers are Sanford, Pinehurst, Fayetteville and Pittsboro. Each of these towns is located in a different county so we have compiled some useful information for you.

TAXES

Property Taxes

According to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau, North Carolina remains a low tax state and continues to rank below the national average. This is despite the fact that North Carolina continues to rank as one of the fastest growing states both in terms of retirees and school aged children.

North Carolina ranked 37th nationally in combined state and local taxes as a percent of personal income and 31 st nationally in total taxes per capita. Additionally, North Carolina’s combined state and local taxes per capita are lower than Georgia and Virginia and is only slightly higher than South Carolina and Tennessee.

Here is a chart that compares property tax rates in a few of the neighboring counties in which we build.

Sales Tax

North Carolina charges a 4.5% state sales tax rate. Individual counties also charge sales tax, most of them averaging 2.5%. The average sales tax is 7%.

Automobile Tax

Each year, you are taxed on the value of your vehicle as determined by the state. Since with each passing year your car is less valuable, the tax basis decreases. Registered motor vehicle bills are due on the first day of the fourth month following the date the registration expires or the new registration is applied for.

For more information on taxes, here are a few helpful web sites:

• NC Dept of Revenue
• NC Dept of Transportation

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COST OF LIVING

The following chart compares the affordability of the greater Raleigh area to other national cities and to the U.S. in general. One interesting point is the relative affordability of housing in the Raleigh area. The chart shows that homes in Raleigh are nearly 9% less expensive than other comparable homes in the U.S.

National Cost of Living

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CLIMATE

Central North Carolina has what many believe to be an ideal climate. Not too far north to have to endure the cold, snowy winters and not too far south to have to languish in the heat and humidity of the summers, the central Piedmont area provides four distinct seasons while being comfortable year round.

Here is a quick glance at the average temperatures in our area by month.

Another question we hear all the time is “does it snow?” The short answer is “yes”. The longer answer is “yes, but usually only once or twice a year and only about an inch or two and it’s gone in 5 days”. So, if you like the ambiance of the snow without the perpetual black slush, come on down!

For those of you who are really into the weather, here are a few interesting charts and some good web sites.

		MONTH LOW HIGH Jan 29°F 49°F Feb 31°F 54°F Mar 38°F 62°F Apr 46°F 71°F May 55°F 78°F Jun 63°F 85°F Jul 68°F 89°F Aug 67°F 87°F Sept 61°F 81°F Oct 48°F 71°F Nov 39°F 62°F Dec 32°F 53°F
		Month       Jan              Feb             Mar Apr May Jun Jul                Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec	Sunshine Hours 52% 56% 60% 63% 59% 60% 60% 58% 58% 60% 57% 53%
		Month       Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov    Dec	Precipitation 4.02in. 3.47in. 4.03in.  2.80in. 3.79in. 3.42in. 4.29in. 3.78in. 4.26in. 3.18in. 2.97in. 3.04in.

Interesting Weather Links for North Carolina

• Historical Climate Data for NC
• State Climate Office of North Carolina
• WRAL TV Weather
• North Carolina Weather Net

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