Advice on NC towns and 20's living (Charlotte, Durham: chapel, school)

[Esher1430]

Hey all! I know NC is quite a scholastic area with many universities and colleges. I'm a professional software development contractor, free to live where I may. I'm in my later 20's and was just looking for some advice about exciting and enjoyable places to live in NC state. I'm from WA and have lived in CA a bit as well.

I was thinking about studying part time towards an MBA but haven't chosen a school or anything, it's not my immediate focus. I already hold a degree in computer science. Specifically the places that stood out to me were Chapel Hill / Durham area as well as Wilmington.

I guess I'm looking for some opinions. What is your opinion on where to live in your late 20's, where you can meet some good fiends and generally enjoy life. I'd be looking for, you know, places to go out and have fun, restaurants, singles, nice weather and such.

Does anyone feel strongly about where / where not to be in NC for a life like this?

[Greeny]

As a late 20's male working in the same field as you, I would suggest the Triangle area first and foremost. If not there, Charlotte and possibly the Triad area. Anywhere else and you will be bored out of your mind both professionally and socially.

[SunnyKayak]

Base on your career and what you are looking for I would lean on the Triangle area.

[Esher1430]

Ahh, nice. What's the deal with Wilmington. This seems like a pretty great place on paper, pretty etc. It doesn't really look like a retirement community, and being close to the beach is always nice.

[SunnyKayak]

Wilmington is nice but base on your career field jobs will be very limited it mostly a service sector type jobs. Pay scale is weaker than other areas and the cost of living in this area is high.

[Esher1430]

Yah, I am not really looking for work though. I'm able to work remotely over the internet full time so getting a job is not really a concern. Its really more about the people and the environment. I'd be looking for nice people to hang out with, nice girls and a bit of nightlife. The kind of place that is closed up shop at 9pm or dead on sundays is probably too slow for me.