Guide to Living in Burlington, NC 

Nestled in Alamance County between Greensboro and Raleigh, Burlington, NC, is a growing community that offers southern charm and a variety of amenities you're sure to love. What truly sets Burlington apart is the way it blends small-town charm with access to urban living. With just over 63,000 residents, Burlington offers a small-town sense of community while providing quick access to urban centers like Raleigh, just an hour away.    

With an affordable cost of living and a growing job market, more people than ever are choosing to call Burlington home. Yet, if you're considering moving but aren't sure if Burlington, NC, is right for you, we're happy to help. Here at the Residences at Forestdale, we know choosing a new hometown is a big decision, which is why we've put together this guide to living in Burlington, NC. Keep reading to learn more about what it's like to live in this charming southern town.    

Burlington Weather 

Burlington's weather is one of its biggest selling points, as it offers a full range of seasons from beautiful spring blooms to stunning autumn leaves. Burlington also experiences mild winters, with an average annual snowfall of about two inches. While summers can be humid, temperatures are warm without being stifling, with summer temperatures averaging in the upper 80's. Of course, when moving to Burlington, you'll need to be prepared for an intense rainy season, with the city receiving an average of 45 inches of rainfall annually.    

Cost of Living in Burlington, NC 

One of the main reasons people choose to settle in Burlington is its lower cost of living compared to nearby cities like Durham or Raleigh. With a median household income of $59,243 and housing costs roughly 45% lower than the national average, Burlington is an affordable place to live for many people.    

Job Opportunities in Burlington 

People have also been drawn to Burlington in recent years due to its employment opportunities. Not only is Burlington home to a strong manufacturing sector, including its historic textiles industry, but it is also the global headquarters of LabCorp, one of the world's largest clinical laboratory and drug development companies, with over 60,000 employees worldwide. Additionally, with close proximity to major North Carolina economic centers such as Raleigh, Greensboro, and Durham, Burlington residents have ample job opportunities to choose from.  

Things to Do in Burlington, NC 

While Burlington is a medium-sized suburb, it offers a surprising diversity of amenities and things to do. In fact, Burlington thrives on its community spirit and offers a wide range of activities, such as the annual Burlington Carousel Festival. Burlington also has a diverse food scene, offering a wide range of international options. Here's a look at just a few of the most popular amenities that draw people to Burlington: 

Nightlife: Burlington has a rich nightlife scene, offering an array of options to suit a wide range of preferences. Whether your ideal night out includes sophisticated cocktails at a trendy lounge, a live band at a local pub, or dinner at a classy restaurant, you'll be sure to find something you love in Burlington. In particular, Burlington's historic downtown district has gone through several renovations recently, adding a wide range of entertainment options, including an amphitheater in the city's original railroad station from the 19th century.   

Art and Culture: At the heart of Burlington's cultural identity is a vibrant arts scene, anchored by the Paramount Theater, which is a stunningly restored venue that hosts plays, concerts, and films. For history enthusiasts, Burlington is also the site of the 1771 Battle of Alamance, the final conflict of the Regulator Movement, which is often seen as the precursor to the American Revolution.  

Outdoor Recreation: Burlington is also a great place to call home for nature lovers. Between strolls through the Burlington Arboretum, kayaking and boating on beautiful Lake Machintosh, hiking along the Haw River, or spending a day in Burlington City Park, there are numerous options for outdoor recreation throughout Burlington.