Looking for a good night’s rest? You may want to take a tip from those in California, as new research reveals they get the best sleep in the country. A survey of 5-thousand Americans, split evenly by state, asks about the average quality of their sleep. They asked how many nights a week they get high-quality sleep and how many hours they snooze a night, on average. Locally we have great news! Both North and South Carolina made the top 5 on the "Best States to Get Sleep" list.
While Californians come in first, they only average six and a half out of 10 when it comes to sleep quality, only get six and a half hours of sleep a night and average four nights of high-quality sleep a week.
The SWNS Digital survey also finds:
- The rest of the top five states for sleep are all on the East Coast, with South Carolina coming in second, followed by New York, Maryland and New Jersey tied for fourth and North Carolina is fifth.
- Regardless of where they live, more than half (55%) of respondents can’t remember the last time they had a “perfect” night of sleep and 78% don’t recall when they last had a “perfect week” of sleep.
- Part of the problem may be that only 48% of respondents say they know how to get a good night’s sleep.
- People admit to engaging in activities that aren’t recommended in the two hours before bed, including watching TV (66%), or scrolling through their phone on social media (38%).
- Californians are slightly better than the national average, as 54% watch TV before bed and 32% are on social media.
- More than three-quarters (78%) of all respondents are trying to improve their sleep this year.
- That includes having a more consistent bedtime and morning routine (44%), not spending time on screens before bed (39%) and eating less later in the evening (30%).
- Men seem to be slightly better sleepers, in general, as 37% of them say they “often” or “always” feel sleep deprived, compared to 50% of women.
I wanna know... What is this “perfect week” of sleep they’re talking about? That’s not a thing, is it?
This Picturesque Small Town In South Carolina Ranks In The Top 10 Most Beautiful Nationwide
South Carolina is home to some incredible small towns. From the Lowcountry to the high country and everywhere in between. With so many spots, it's hard to pick a favorite. Especially when each has something unique to offer. Many are gorgeous, and while we know that it's nice to see others recognize that beauty. The travel experts over at North Carolina Travel Guides recently ranked the most picturesque small towns in the country. And the most picturesque town in South Carolina was part of the nationwide top 10.
Their team worked to find the 120 most picturesque small towns in America. These towns are the ones that are "an absolute must-see and that one shouldn’t miss out on this summer." So how exactly did they do this? North Carolina Travel Guides travel experts compared 500 small towns to create this list of 120. Metrics used to determine the most picturesque included search trends, popularity with photographers, and popularity for photography with the general public. And I know what you're thinking. If this was commissioned by North Carolina travel experts they were probably biased. Right? Wrong. South Carolina actually had 6 towns included in the 120. And while North Carolina did as well, the SC ones ranked significantly higher.
One South Carolina town ranked number 6, another 11th, and a third 23rd. The highest ranking NC town? It was 50th. So no bias here! Towns in both Carolinas are spread between all areas of the states. So whether you are looking for a quiet spot for a weekend getaway, a weeklong vacation, or a place to relocate you'll want to read this list. Below you'll find the top-ranked picturesque small town and towns in South Carolina followed by those in North Carolina. You can read the North Carolina Travel Guides article here.
103. Folly Beach, SC
Folly Beach is known as "Charleston's Beach Town". This small beach town is all about life on the water, with offers a gorgeous backdrop for endless activities. Learn more about visiting Folly Beach.
102. Travelers Rest
You'll find Traveler's Rest in the southern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town was named for its natural amenities and proximity to some of the most amazing outdoor recreation in the state. It is known for its "artsy vibe, active lifestyle, and historic charm". The town features Swamp Rabbit Trail greenway, a driving range, shops, restaurants, antique stores, boutiques, and a brewery. Learn more about Travelers Rest here.
75. Clemson
This one pains me a little bit (college sports rivalries are real), but I was pleasantly surprised that Clemson has more to offer than just a college town. The town is located in the foothills near the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the shores of Lake Hartwell. This gives Clemson a unique combination of mountain, lake, and urban lifestyles. Learn more here.
23. Aiken
Located near the Georgia border a few miles from Augusta is the picturesque town of Aiken. Equine pursuits, the arts, sporting facilities, and nature, are just some of what the town is known for. It has a rich history from playing a part in our country’s railroad birth to our fight in the Cold War era. Local officials say Aiken has a "history most small towns have never experienced the likes of". Learn more here.
11. Beaufort
This coastal town has all the southern charm you come to expect from the South Carolina Lowcountry. The town's historic streets are framed by natural foliage of picturesque Spanish moss-draped live oak trees. This charming destination has been delighting visitors since 1512. Learn more about Beaufort here.
6. Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms is a barrier island made up of six miles of white, sandy beaches. It's less than 20 minutes from historic Charleston. IOP as it's referred to for short is known for its beaches, natural wildlife, world-class resorts, spas, golf, and restaurants. Learn more here.
North Carolina Towns
115. Bryson City
The town of Bryson City is situated next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park full of fresh air and nature. Its "remote location" offers plenty of space for whatever activities your heart desires from adventure to relaxation. It features "majestic mountain landscapes, scenic hiking trails, spectacular train excursions, a vibrant downtown, and the pristine waters of Fontana Lake." Learn more here.
110. Washington
The town of Washington is a slightly hidden gem on North Carolina's Inner Banks. Its location along the Pamlico River is perfect for small-town charm. Downtown features an "eclectic blend of boutiques, restaurants, and attractions". It's a small community built around maritime culture along the Tar and Pamlico Rivers. Learn more here.
90. Cashiers
Cashiers is located in Jackson County and the Blue Ridge Mountains along scenic Highway 64 in the middle of the Nantahala National Forest. The adorable downtown features boutiques, antique shops, home furnishing studios, and restaurants. A favorite of visitors is the Cashiers Farmers Market. Learn more here.
73. Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is located on the drive up 321 before you hit the college town of Boone. It's a quaint town mostly situated on one main street that boasts a rich history dating as far back as the 1700s. Learn about some of my favorite things to do when visiting Blowing Rock here.
54. Hillsborough
Hillsborough's downtown historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It features more than 100 homes, churches, a school, and other buildings dating back to the late 18th and 19th centuries. The town is centrally located with easy access to both I-85 and I-40. Learn more here.
50. Beaufort
The coastal town of Beaufort is another town located on the Inner Banks. It is a popular vacation destination for just a small 2.7-mile town that is surrounded by nearly a mile of water. The lovely downtown is filled with shops, galleries, and acclaimed restaurants. Learn more here.
