This City Has the Worst Traffic in North Carolina

Traffic sucks! Yes, completely something that we can all agree on I am sure. Sitting in traffic whether you are on the way to work, leaving work, or going anywhere you just wish you did not have to deal with. I know traffic is completely normal but it just is not that great to ever be okay with. You would much rather always be able to get to where you need, smoothly and quickly. But guess that is just never going to happen.

The Mountaineer is showing us which North Carolina city is the worst for traffic. There are plenty of cities that suck when it comes to traffic. But, you have to know there is always going to be one that is simply the worst. But, which North Carolina city took home the title? Of course, Charlotte. Did you know the average commuter lost an average of 25 hours to traffic in 2022? Certainly feels like we lost a lot more than just 25 hours. In the report done by INRIX, Charlotte ranked as No. 43 out of 280 for traffic delays. Charlotte's average commute time is 25 minutes. Coming from someone that lives slightly outside of the city, I can certainly believe this number. Of course, for those coming from outside of Charlotte in areas like Rock Hill or Fort Mill, your commute is by far more.

But, even crazier. Did you know that 92.8% of commuters drive? That is surely a lot of commuters right here in Charlotte. But then again, that makes sense why there is so much traffic in the first place. What do you think about this? Check out the full list here to see what other cities have the most traffic in their state.

Have you seen the cost of living as of recently? Yes, that's right it is quite expensive to survive around here. It's pretty insane if you ask me. People are also getting to the point of relocating to more affordable cities more than ever. Some towns and cities are just so much more affordable that it's a no-brainer to relocate.

Travel + Leisure released their list of the ten most beautiful and affordable places to live in the United States. Yes, affordable does not mean you won't be able to have some beauty either. From fast-paced cities to small, quaint towns on the beaches there are tons of great, affordable places you could live. In fact, one North Carolina town took home the No. 1 spot for the most beautiful and affordable spot in the U.S. One South Carolina area also made the top five. Do you have any guesses? Check out the top 5 below and tell us what you think. View Travel + Leisure's full list here.

First, we're taking a trip to Tennessee, Knoxville to be exact. Knoxville is the No. 5 most affordable and beautiful place to live on this list. The area gives those that live there a perfect balance of city and nature living. The report states that the median housing price is about $335,000 which is figuratively low for other small, metro type areas in the country.

Next up, we're living it up in Kentucky. Lousiville, Kentucky is the No. 4 most affordable, beautiful location to live. This city is full of life with the history and culture that can be seen in buildings and through the locals. The median housing cost is quite low coming in at $163,000. Now that sounds like a great deal to me!

Coming in at No. 3, we're heading to South Carolina. Greenville is one of South Carolina's most up-and-coming cities that has grown tremendously over the last few years. The city has tons of job opportunities, restaurants, and tons of other things to do. The median home price is about $320,000. The revamped downtown areas offer visitors and locals a fresh new look at what Greenville is all about! 

Coming in at No. 2 is this Michigan staple, Grand Rapids. The Grand Rapids area is home to a booming arts scene and offers those that live in the area tons of things to do. The family friendly area offers entertainment for the entire family ranging in different ages. They also have a median home price of $367,000 which is roughly low compared to the area. 

Here we are at No. 1! Hickory, North Carolina is the most beautiful and affordable spot to live in the U.S. This family friendly spot is a beautiful town for those loving the close proximity to nature and mountain dreams. The median home price is $161,000 which makes it clearly far more affordable than anywhere else in the top 5. Great for retirees or those looking for a bit quieter area to call home, Hickory would be perfect for you!