North Carolina has a number of properties available for rent, from residential homes and apartments to townhouses and condos. The state has an overall cost of living that is slightly lower than the national average. There is a diverse economy, an educated workforce, and a wide variety of entertainment options throughout the state.
Mecklenburg County is home to Charlotte, its largest city and county seat. Banking, manufacturing, and professional services, particularly medicine, are the largest industries based here. A number of colleges and universities are located in this county, which also offers many cultural and sports options. Wake County is the second most populated county behind Mecklenburg County and is home to Raleigh, the state capital and county seat. The county also encompasses Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill, along with nearby suburban areas. Wake County is a center for educational institutions and high-tech and biotech research as well as textile development. It is also an industrial and agricultural base. Guilford County is the third most populated county in the state, and Greensboro is its largest city. The economy is driven by textiles, tobacco, and furniture manufacturing. The city entices businesses and families as well as a thriving arts community. Several historical and amusement attractions bring in many visitors.
North Carolina's economy is led the agricultural industry, particularly in poultry and eggs, tobacco, hogs, milk, cattle, nursery stock, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. The state is also a leader in manufacturing, such as textiles, chemicals, electrical equipment, paper, and pulp. Banking and finance are helping the state to grow, with operations primarily based in the city of Charlotte, which is also home to Bank of America. The government sector is the state's leading employer, with the State of North Carolina and the federal government being the largest employers. Education is the next largest sector, with Duke University, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, and Wake County Public Schools hiring the most employees.
