Every single day, an average of 66 people decide to make a particular Southern US county their new home, cementing its status as a national growth phenomenon. This isn't a sprawling coastal metropolis but a picturesque region in North Carolina that is rapidly becoming one of the country's most sought-after places to live.
The Engine of Growth: Education, Jobs, and Livability
Wake County, an 835-square-mile area with a population exceeding 1.2 million, is officially the third fastest-growing county in the United States. Michael Haley, executive director of Wake County Economic Development, revealed to the Daily Mail that the population has swelled by more than 20 percent in the past decade. Projections indicate another staggering 21 percent increase over the next ten years.
The primary driver is net migration, with newcomers flocking from major metropolitan areas. Daily figures show about 49 people moving in, complemented by 17 births. Of those relocating, approximately 30 arrive from other US states, while 20 come from abroad. Top origin cities include New York, Charlotte, Washington DC, Atlanta, and Miami.
"The combination of education, career prospects, and livability makes Wake County a top destination," Haley stated. The region boasts a highly educated populace, with nearly half holding a bachelor's degree or higher. A thriving job market, supported by major employers and a strong innovation ecosystem, acts as a powerful magnet for talent.
Managing the Surge: Emergency Services Adapt
This remarkable boom, however, brings significant challenges, particularly for public services. The rising population leads to more emergencies, with calls to emergency services increasing by six to seven percent annually. To keep pace, the Wake County Board of Commissioners has approved the creation of 12 new full-time EMS positions—seven paramedics and five EMTs.
Assistant Chief of Community Outreach Staten Young explained the broader strategy: "In addition to hiring new staff, we are always evaluating our system as a whole and right now we are reassessing our call response plan." A key initiative involves more precise categorisation of 911 calls to ensure the right resources reach every patient promptly.
Young views the growth positively, noting it drives healthcare expansion and attracts world-class specialists. Educational institutions are also stepping up; Wake Technical College now offers EMS college credits in high school programmes, creating a pipeline of future talent. The presence of prestigious universities like nearby Duke continues to bolster the local economy.
Affordability Attracts Young Families and Millennials
A major factor in Wake County's appeal is its relative affordability, especially for millennials and young families. The average age of new arrivals is just 27. The area scores 97 on the Cost of Living Index, where the national average is 100. This compares favourably to Atlanta (98), Washington DC (142), Boston (146), and Manhattan (230).
Realtor Michael Terbet highlighted that property taxes are notably lower than in many northern states. The average home price currently stands at $474,088, having dipped almost three percent in the past year. Raleigh, a key hub within the county, remains particularly affordable, with Zillow listing three-bedroom homes between $300,000 and $400,000.
Despite high demand, Terbet asserts supply is keeping up, thanks to new construction, particularly in outer towns. Desirable homes still sell rapidly, often with multiple offers. The rental market also offers value; the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Raleigh is $1,351—17 percent lower than the national average of $1,623, and has even decreased by two percent recently.
This blend of economic opportunity, educational excellence, and manageable living costs ensures that Wake County's remarkable growth story is set to continue, even as it wisely plans for the demands of its expanding population.
