Looking to relocate (Wilmington, New Bern, Oriental: best city, crime, employment)

[sandkop1]

I currently live in Connnecticut and realize we cannot afford to stay here any longer. I have visited NC a a few times and would love to relocate there. We would like to be near the intercoastal water as my husband is a boater, with a close drive to the ocean but in an affordable area. We really liked the "small town" feeling of New Bern and the areas surrounding it. Can someone tell me which would be the best city to investigate. Neighborhoods, schools, crime rate, jobs etc.

[luckydog]

We would like to be near the intercoastal water as my husband is a boater, with a close drive to the ocean

There are many towns that will meet your requirements. But, I cannot urge you more strongly to fully educate yourself on what hurricanes mean in those areas, before you go further in your search. It's nothing to take lightly. Areas on the intercoastal, or even close by, are typically in a "direct-hit" zone.


I can answer best about the areas north of New Bern, up to the VA border. Almost all in that area are very rural & are truly "small towns"...not just a "small town feel" mind you. Are you looking for an actual small town or something larger, with a "small town feel"?

[sandkop1]

Hurricanes are a major concern that we would need to consider before making a move. A small town would suit me fine since I am ready to retire but my daughter and her 6 year old son would also be moving with us also.
I'm afraid a small town may be too rurual for her taste and she would need to find employment also. We checked out Wilmington but I thought it to be too commercial and too similar to what we are trying to get away from in CT. I loved Oriental but that was very small. I thought New Bern to be the larger of the small towns and one that would suit us all. Any suggestions?