Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the decision to relocate to a new state can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure of the level of acceptance you’ll receive. It’s a legitimate concern to have, and unfortunately, in this day and age, it’s still a reality that not all places are equally welcoming. However, with the rise of queer-friendly cities and states, the process of moving can be made more comfortable and reassuring.
By conducting research and tapping into resources, queer people can identify places where they can live their lives authentically and thrive. So, if you’re thinking of relocating, don’t let the fear of not being accepted hold you back. With some planning and support, you can find a new home where you’re celebrated for who you are.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay North Carolina, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in North Carolina and whether North Carolina embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in North Carolina and LGBT community organizations in North Carolina that you should be aware of!
North Carolina is your typical Southern state that has a lot to offer both locals and guests with outdoor activities, such as skiing, mountain climbing and hiking, culture and music. North Carolina is also known as a relatively diverse and progressive state, with cities that are welcoming and high growth rates.
With a thriving economy, some of the friendliest neighbors, and mild winters, there’s little not to love about the state – but we are here to consider North Carolina from a queer perspective…and we have to admit, you’re thinking of moving to Gay North Carolina, you should know that the state isn’t very clear-cut where the LGBTQ+ community is concerned. The truth is that even though the state has made good progress when it comes to LGBTQ rights, there’s still a long way to go, as the LGBT community here still faces major challenges.
Even so, the state has certain laws to protect the LGBTQ community from discrimination. For instance, in 2021, the state introduced the School Safety Act that prohibited discrimination against LGBTQ+ students. What the state lacks in terms of LGBTQ protections is laws preventing discrimination on the basis of employment, housing, and public accommodations.
The state of North Carolina also holds a number of events and festivals for the LGBT community such as Raleigh’s Triangle Community Works Pride Festival and the Charlotte Pride Festival. Just because North Carolina hasn’t decided where it stands with the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t mean you can’t find a thriving community here. There’s lots of love to go around here and a community you will be proud to call your home.
To reduce the stress of your relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in North Carolina early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to North Carolina – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay North Carolina
It’s hard not to get enthusiastic about the unique and tempting proposition that moving to North Carolina presents – especially once you get chatting with residents and long-time locals in the know about all their state’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you should quickly befriend locals, let them ‘spill the tea’ and then spend your free time discovering the best sights, food, nature and culture North Carolina has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community – which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots – securing a relocation to North Carolina should allow you to meet local queer people with similar interests.
We are certain locals will have many more to add, but to get you excited, here are just a few highlights to look forward to as you become North Carolina’s newest denizen.
Community Support
One of the best things about living in NC is that you will have access to community support whenever you need it. There are plenty of resources and organizations in the state, such as the LGBTQ Center of Raleigh, that offer a range of resources, educational opportunities and programs for transgender people, adults, and youth.
Whether you’re looking for support for yourself, a loved one, or a close friend, there are plenty of resources in the state that you can access.
Southern Charm
Looking for that good old Southern charm? Well, you get it in North Carolina. The people here are some of the friendliest you will ever come across, and chances are that you will find people here that are willing to go out of their way to help you feel comfortable.
NC is a truly friendly state, and the people here will be quick to support and embrace you. You don’t have to look very far for friendship and hospitality, as it will be all around you and everywhere you look!
It’s Diverse
The state of North Carolina is truly home to some wonderfully diverse cities and neighborhoods. For example, Raleigh and Charlotte are home to some of the most diverse populations in the state. NC cities are great places to explore different cultures, foods, and entertainment.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to North Carolina and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does North Carolina Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
It wasn’t until the end of the 20th century that people got a glimpse into the inner workings of the LGBT community in North Carolina. Previously, the personal lives of the LGBT community in the state weren’t open for all to see. Of course, homosexuality was in existence in the state, but making conversations out of it wasn’t generally a thing.
In the past, one had to be very careful if they were gay because the state had statutes prohibiting sodomy, and people could be convicted for “crimes against nature.” The truth is that being LGBT wasn’t something that was openly accepted, and most members of the communities could only talk to their closest friends about their sexual preferences.
Today, the state has some laws that protect LGBTQ+ youth, and there are some school districts with LGBTQ+ protections. Today, the state of North Carolina is home to a significant and vibrant LGBTQ+ population. It is also home to cities that are welcoming and accepting of LGBTQ+ people. Even so, this doesn’t mean that all of NC is accepting and welcoming.
In North Carolina, the diversity of attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community can vary significantly from one area to another. Cities like Asheville and Charlotte are renowned for their vibrant and inclusive environments, yet it’s crucial to be aware that not all enclaves within these cities, or in their surrounding areas, share the same level of openness. Nearby, Cary emerges as a notable exception, exemplifying progressive and welcoming attitudes.
This contrast underscores the importance of being mindful about the specific locality within North Carolina, as each city and even each neighborhood can present a different level of acceptance and inclusivity. The state, therefore, offers a mosaic of experiences for the LGBTQ+ community, with some areas being more forward-thinking than others.
Is North Carolina An Expensive State To Move To?
It costs 4% less than the country’s average to live in North Carolina. Even so, those who move here will notice that living in the state is right in the middle of the cheap vs. expensive spectrum. If you’re moving from a more expensive state, you can expect to save a little more money. Here’s a little breakdown of what it’s like to live in the state.
Housing
North Carolina is home to a range of housing options. On average, family homes in the state cost around $369,400. This price is around 1% less than the national median home price of $375,000. If you’re looking to rent, you should know that monthly rent for a two-bedroom in the state is likely to cost around $1,130, which is less than the national median. If you choose to live in a smaller city, rent and housing, in general, will be much cheaper.
Utilities
The climate around NC is hot and humid or cold and snowy, depending on where in the state you decide to live. As a result, you may either need more heat or AC. In NC, you are likely to pay 6% lower for utilities than the country’s average.
Groceries
The grocery costs for NC are almost 2% more than the country’s average. However, one of the cities, Raleigh, has grocery costs that are 12% less than the national average.
Transportation
You should expect to pay around 3% less than the national average for your transport costs in the state.
Healthcare
NC is very popular for having excellent healthcare and a good number of pharmaceuticals and medical institutions. Even so, you should expect to pay around 12% more in healthcare than the national average.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In North Carolina
Wherever you live, it is essential that you support LGBT organizations in any way you can so that they can keep reaching out to and assisting other, more vulnerable members of the community. After all, we are stronger when we work together, and each of us will likely have a time in our lives when we require a little extra support.
Thankfully, North Carolina has a supportive and diverse LGBTQ community, which has helped the state become more gay-friendly in recent years.
As a result, there are a variety of LGBT resources available to community members, their allies, friends, and families – and you ought to feel free to utilize them or consider giving your support as needed to keep your new home state moving forwards! They are also great places to meet new people and find your queer chosen family in Gay North Carolina.
Time Out Youth Center is dedicated to ensuring that everyone- regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation- that comes here feels welcome and accepted. The organization offers youth a safe space to be who they want to be, and whether they’re not out, partially out, or completely out, they’re all welcome here.
The center seeks to acknowledge and respect each person’s journey and encourages them to be who they are meant to be.
Empower East believes in a community where everyone can be valued, seen, and heard. The organization’s mission is to advocate for justice, mental health, civic education, equality, and empowerment in the region.
Empower East hopes to achieve this by partnering with like-minded organizations and amplifying their impact in surrounding communities. Empower East hopes to create a community where everyone is allowed to be who they are and believe what they want to believe.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In North Carolina
In North Carolina, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ North Carolina, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly North Carolina cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with North Carolina’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in North Carolina… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in North Carolina are and why you might want to consider them!
Asheville
Western NC can become quite conservative. However, Asheville, a small, liberal town, is a haven for LGBT tourists and has much to offer in spite of its size.
The city, sometimes regarded as the “gayest city in NC,” is a stunning city and the ideal destination for your LGBT vacation needs thanks to its amazing panoramic views, diverse beer and culinary scenes, thriving cultural community, and plenty of gay-friendly businesses.
You will discover a wide variety of distinctive stores, eateries, pubs, motels, and activities to keep you occupied and make you feel welcome and at home. LGBT transplants will love Asheville’s warm and inclusive atmosphere, especially in the downtown and Biltmore areas. The sizable GLBT population enjoys meeting guests because many of them have traveled to the region before.
The downtown area is especially great for those who are looking for a hangout since most of the LGBT pubs and establishments may be found there. Asheville doesn’t have a designated “gayborhood,” but LGBT people have established homes all around the city.
For many years, the city has been a well-liked vacation spot and relocating site targeting LGBT populations. Since most residents were formerly tourists before falling in love with the region and relocating, the sizable LGBTQ community takes pleasure in welcoming them. Find a variety of destinations and activities.
Creativity is in plenty because of the thriving arts scene! The Blue Ridge Pride Celebration held in the city offers an excellent opportunity for you to meet new people and have fun. While the city has no designated gayborhood, you will find a thriving LGBTQ+ community that is interwoven into all facets of the local culture.
Charlotte
The city of Charlotte has much to offer in terms of open green spaces and urban city living interwoven together. Charlotte is home to a good number of restaurants, businesses, and bars, thanks to its position as a commercial hub in the state. Also known as Queen City, Charlotte is the biggest city in the state and is also home to its largest gay population.
The city of Charlotte loves to host Charlotte Pride, which is one of the biggest pride festivals in the region. Charlotte has many gay-friendly clubs and bars and is also home to Charlotte Interfaith Equality, which seeks to advance the acceptance of the LGBT population in religious settings.
Charlotte is a safe city, it is warm, diverse and welcoming, and any member of the LGBTQ community will be happy to call the city home.
Raleigh
It doesn’t matter how you identify- Raleigh will welcome you with open arms! Also known as the City of Oaks, Raleigh is a welcoming destination for both LGBTQ+ tourists and transplants who want to experience the joy of being in a location where acceptance is the name of the game.
For sure, you will be comfortable living in Raleigh as the city is popular for offering the LGBT community a vibrant club scene that provides awesome experiences when it comes to gay events and nightlife.
Raleigh is also home to a number of LGBT resources and organizations that support the city’s community, such as the LGBT Center of Raleigh, which offers a safe space for the city’s LGBT community.
The center also offers valuable resources to those in need making Raleigh develop into a gay-friendly city with tons to offer. Over the years, Raleigh has slowly been transforming into a gay Southern City that welcomes and embraces all queer people, their families, and their friends.
The city offers a vibrant gay scene, and even though it has no specific “gayborhood,” most neighborhoods in the city are inclusive, and you would be proud to call them home.
Raleigh is home to many bars, restaurants, and stores that are LGBT-focused, and many of the eateries and shops in the city’s downtown areas are welcoming to everyone regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation.
Finding Gay Realtors In North Carolina
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in North Carolina is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face.
Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in North Carolina, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in North Carolina to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one who is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
