
Considering a move to Winston-Salem? This centrally-located, beautiful city is one of North Carolina’s greatest gems. With a vibrant arts and cultural scene, fantastic restaurants, excellent colleges and universities, a favorable climate, and excellent employment opportunities, it’s no wonder more and more Americans are looking to purchase a home in the tight-knit community of Winston-Salem.
In this article, we’ll touch on some of our favorite things about the city. Whether you decide to make the move immediately or are simply weighing your options, you’ll love calling Winston-Salem home.
- The cost of living is in your favor
Winston-Salem offers the arts, culture, and employment opportunities of a big city—without the hefty cost of living. In fact, the cost of living is nearly 20% below the national average, whereas housing costs are 40% lower. According to the city, Winston-Salem is ranked in the top three metropolitan areas for housing affordability and overall value. Plus, the city has a lower cost of living than nearby Raleigh and Charlotte.
That means moving into your dream home is absolutely possible, especially since more and more stunning, new Winston-Salem homes are being built in the region every day.
Related: Starter Home or Forever Home: Which is Right for You?
- It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful

It’s no secret that the Carolinas are breathtaking. But Winston-Salem has its own charm, too. Extraordinarily green, the region is home to top-notch hiking, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Black Mountain Crest Trail. Other must-see areas include the city’s charming historic district, Old Salem. The living museum features restored buildings and nostalgic cobblestone streets that pay homage to the city’s 18th and 19th-century roots.
Salem Lake is also a favorite park amongst locals and tourists alike. There, you’ll find a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Don’t forget your camera, either: the park also shows off Winston-Salem’s lush greenery and cityscapes.
- The culinary scene is outstanding
Move over, Asheville. Winston-Salem is having a culinary renaissance of its own. With many beloved restaurants and breweries, downtown Winston-Salem is the perfect date night destination for residents looking to explore farm-to-table dining and unique craft beers.
Whether you’re after Southern-inspired dishes like fridge green tomatoes and shrimp and grits or an authentic, Neapolitan-style pizza, the burgeoning dining scene of downtown Winston-Salem does not disappoint. Some of our favorite restaurants include Mission Pizza Napoletana, Young Cardinal Cafe and Co., Forsyth Seafood Market & Cafe, Los Juanes, and Sweet Potatoes.
- There’s a ton to do
No matter your hobbies and passions, Winston-Salem has something for everyone. Explore the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, turn back time at Old Salem Museums & Gardens, or catch a minor league ballgame at BB&T Ballpark.
Winston-Salem is also host to nearly 80 unique parks and outdoor spaces. Whether you want to bike, hike, picnic, or take your toddlers to a splash pad, there’s no better place to do it.
For children, beyond dozens of outstanding parks, Winston-Salem boasts an interactive children’s museum, a hands-on science museum (Kaleidum North), and a corresponding, arts-focused downtown sister museum perfect for activating your children’s imagination.
Related: Tips for a Kid-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Move
- Education is everywhere

In Winston-Salem, there’s no shortage of top-notch learning institutions. Most of the city is served by the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools district. There are also private schools for every style of learning. Moreover, the city is also home to several higher education institutions—most notably, Wake Forest University. Also nearby are Winston-Salem State University and UNC’s School of the Arts.
There is also a community college serving the area and tons of continuing education opportunities for adults of all ages.
About True Homes
True Homes is an award-winning builder of stunning, semi-custom brand new homes across North and South Carolina. Our offerings in Winston-Salem give home buyers the power to purchase a brand-new dream home that meets their unique wants and needs. To learn more about where we build in Winston-Salem and what new properties are hitting the market today, feel free to contact us.