We are seriously considering Minnesota, S. Dakota, S. Carolina, N. Carolina, Pennsylvania and (never thought it would be on the list) back to my roots in Ohio area. Looking for nice areas, some acres and definitely around race tracks. Prefer to be 45-min to 1-hour outside of any major city area. Top-2 are Minnesota and S. Carolina.
Well, I moved to North Carolina in 2017 (after retiring from work in Maryland). I am very happy with my decision.
1) Relatively affordable housing and cost of living. Property tax good, insurance costs good.
2) State Income tax planned reductions to 3.99% in 2027.
now 4.75% in 2023
was 4.99% in 2022 My state income tax was $65 this year, Withheld $1,000-$65=$935 refund. Since my pension is not taxed and I had low capital gains on my savings.
was 5.25% in 2021
was 5.25% in 2020
was 5.25% in 2019
was 5.499% in 2018
3) Plenty of 1/8 mile drag strips (except near the ocean, Wilmington). So Raliegh, Greeensboro, HighPoint, or outside Charlotte.
4) I like the lack of snow in winter. Yes, it might snow a couple days but then it melts.
5) Great highway system ! Lots of big multilane highways and mostly few cars = lack of crazy traffic. Few exceptions near city limits (Raliegh, Charlotte, etc).
I live 5 miles outside the Greensboro city limits and it feels more country, so you can affordably buy 2-20 acres and still be close to major stores, plumbing, metal supply, fabrication, etc.
