Relocating to the Triad
Welcome to the Triad!
Welcome to the Sherry Riano Team's comprehensive guide to relocating to North Carolina's enchanting Triad region! Our trusted and knowledgeable mortgage lending team is excited to help you explore the unique qualities and possibilities that make this area a remarkable place to call home. This page is crafted to provide invaluable information to make your relocation decision as smooth as possible. You'll find a wealth of knowledge on the compelling reasons to live in the Triad area, vibrant neighborhoods, the stunning natural beauty of nearby national and state parks, and the convenience of local airports. We've also dedicated sections to address your potential questions about education and childcare, the cost of living, and the robust local economy and job market. Delve into data about the area's largest employers and leading-edge hospital and medical facilities. To top it off, we've created a comprehensive, free downloadable guide loaded with additional information. So, let's embark on this journey together, because here at the Sherry Riano Team, we believe that your dream home is more than a house – it's the community and lifestyle that surrounds it. Welcome to the Triad!
4 Reasons to Live in The Triad
Popular Cities Around the Triad
The Triad area of North Carolina, named for the three major cities of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point, is surrounded by several other popular cities that offer a variety of experiences and opportunities. Here are some of them:
- Asheboro: Known for the North Carolina Zoo, one of the largest "natural habitat" zoos in the United States.
- Burlington: A vibrant city home to several historic sites, beautiful parks, and the popular Alamance Battleground State Historic Site.
- Kernersville: A city rich in history and community spirit, with attractions such as the Korner's Folly, known as the "strangest house in the world".
- Thomasville: Famous for its giant Duncan Phyfe-style chair, known as "The Big Chair".
- Lexington: Known as the "Barbecue Capital of the World" for its renowned Lexington-style barbecue.
- Mount Airy: Famous for being the hometown of actor Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry.
- Clemmons: Known for the historic Tanglewood Park, offering recreational activities including golf, horseback riding, and more.
- Graham: Boasts of a charming downtown district and the notable Alamance County Historical Museum.
- Archdale: Home to the Bush Hill Heritage Festival, attracting locals and tourists with music, crafts, and food.
Remember, each of these cities brings its own unique flavor to the overall tapestry of the Triad area.
Triad Area County Map
20 Largest Cities in NC
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National and State Parks
The Triad area of North Carolina offers a multitude of stunning parks, nature preserves, and forests for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Here are some noteworthy ones:
National Parks/Forests:
Uwharrie National Forest: Located just to the east of the Triad, Uwharrie National Forest provides miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, off-road vehicles, and camping opportunities.
State Parks/Forests:
- Hanging Rock State Park: Just north of the Triad, this park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, a large lake for swimming and boating, and several campgrounds.
- Pilot Mountain State Park: Known for its distinctive peak, this park is a haven for rock climbers and hikers, and also offers camping and picnicking sites.
- Haw River State Park: Located in the northern part of the Triad, this park provides a variety of outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and boating.
- Guilford Courthouse National Military Park: While technically a national military park, this historic Greensboro site is an excellent place to learn about Revolutionary War history, walk trails, and enjoy outdoor recreational activities.
- Lake Norman State Park: Although a bit to the south, this is a popular destination for boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming with the largest manmade lake in the state.
- Eno River State Park: Just a short drive east, this park offers wilderness hiking and river activities in a serene, natural setting.
- South Mountains State Park: Further southwest, it's a bit of a drive, but this park offers rugged hiking with stunning waterfalls, equestrian trails, and primitive camping.
Airports
Traveling to and from the Triad area of North Carolina is made convenient by the presence of several airports, both large and small, offering a range of travel options for residents and visitors alike. Here are some of them:
- Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO): As the primary airport serving the Triad area, GSO offers a wide range of services, from domestic to some international flights. It's located in Greensboro, right in the heart of the Triad.
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU): Located just a short drive east of the Triad area, RDU is a larger airport offering more extensive domestic and international services.
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): Slightly further away to the southwest, CLT is one of the busiest airports in the country, providing a wide array of travel options.
- Smith Reynolds Airport (INT): Located in Winston-Salem, this airport primarily serves private and corporate aviation needs.
- Davidson County Airport (EXX): Located in Lexington, it serves primarily general and private aviation.
- Burlington-Alamance Regional Airport (BUY): Located in Burlington, this airport is used mainly for general aviation but does have charter services as well.
- Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (USA): Although a bit farther south in Concord, it serves as an alternative to Charlotte, particularly for NASCAR teams and charter flights.
Each airport provides different options in terms of airlines, routes, and services, offering Triad residents a variety of choices to fit their travel needs.
Cost of Living
*Disclaimer: Most of this data is from January 2023
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Economy and Job Market
The economy and job market of North Carolina's Triad area offer remarkable strength and diversity, making it a promising destination for individuals and families considering relocation. As one of the state's most dynamic economic hubs, the Triad boasts robust sectors including healthcare, education, manufacturing, technology, and finance, along with a burgeoning scene of startups and small businesses. Notably, the area is home to major corporations and renowned academic institutions, providing a plethora of job opportunities. The Triad also continually invests in economic development initiatives, attracting new businesses and fostering an environment ripe for job growth. Unemployment rates are typically lower than the national average, reflecting the healthy job market. With its combination of large corporate employers and thriving entrepreneurial spirit, the Triad offers a balanced and vibrant economy where career aspirations can take flight. Regardless of your professional background or ambitions, you're likely to find exciting opportunities in the Triad area.
Top Industries
The Triad area of North Carolina is a dynamic economic powerhouse, bolstered by several major industries that drive its growth and prosperity. At the heart of the region's economy is the healthcare sector, led by renowned institutions like Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Cone Health. The Triad also hosts a thriving manufacturing industry, with a strong history in textiles and furniture and evolving capabilities in advanced manufacturing, including aviation and biotechnology. Education is another significant sector, with prestigious institutions such as Wake Forest University, High Point University, and UNC Greensboro providing not only employment but also resources for innovation. Furthermore, the finance and insurance sector has a considerable presence, underscored by companies like BB&T (now Truist). Lastly, the burgeoning technology sector is fueling the area's future growth, with a growing number of startups and established firms specializing in everything from software development to information technology services. This rich diversity of industries gives the Triad area a resilient and vibrant economy, offering myriad opportunities for career growth.
Major Employers
The Triad area of North Carolina is home to a diverse mix of large employers across various sectors, from healthcare and education to finance and manufacturing. As of my last update in September 2021, some of the top employers in the Triad area include:
- Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center
- Cone Health
- Novant Health
- Wells Fargo
- LabCorp
- BB&T (now Truist after merging with SunTrust)
- Hanesbrands Inc
- VF Corporation
- Volvo Trucks North America
- Wake Forest University
- Guilford County Schools
Hospitals and Medical
- Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center: Based in Winston-Salem, this renowned hospital provides a full range of healthcare services, including specialist care and a highly regarded medical research program.
- Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center: Located in Winston-Salem, this is one of the largest hospitals in the region and offers a wide range of medical services.
- Cone Health Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital: This Greensboro-based hospital is a large healthcare provider offering a broad spectrum of services, including specialized heart and vascular care, maternity services, and cancer care.
- High Point Medical Center (part of Wake Forest Health): Located in High Point, this facility offers comprehensive services, from emergency care to specialist treatments.
- Novant Health Medical Park Hospital: Also based in Winston-Salem, this hospital specializes in surgical services, along with a range of other medical treatments.
- Wesley Long Hospital (part of Cone Health): Located in Greensboro, this hospital provides a variety of services, including a well-known cancer center and robotic surgery services.
- Women's Hospital (part of Cone Health): Located in Greensboro, this is the state's first free-standing hospital dedicated to women.
- Randolph Health: Based in Asheboro, this community hospital offers a broad range of healthcare services to residents in the southern part of the Triad.
- Brenner Children's Hospital: A part of Wake Forest Baptist Health located in Winston-Salem, this is the region's only children's hospital.
For more information on additional facilities please click here.
Retiring to the Triad
Retiring in the Triad area of North Carolina is an appealing option for those seeking a blend of vibrant culture, diverse recreational opportunities, and affordability in their golden years. The region is recognized for its lower-than-average cost of living, including reasonably priced housing options, which make it easier for retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. It's also home to excellent healthcare facilities, providing peace of mind for those with medical needs. Nature lovers can delight in the area's rich natural beauty, from tranquil state parks to inviting trails perfect for leisurely walks. If you're a fan of arts and culture, the Triad boasts numerous galleries, museums, and live performance venues. The area's pleasant climate, with all four distinct seasons but a generally mild winter, adds to its allure. Furthermore, the Triad offers a strong sense of community, with plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow residents through local clubs, volunteering activities, and community events. With all these factors combined, retiring in the Triad area allows for an active, engaging, and satisfying lifestyle.
