Year after year, the superlatives continue to pour in about the Triangle area’s quality of living: Money Magazine’s Best Place to Live in America, Fortune’s Best City for Business and one of Redbook’s Top Ten Cities for Working Mothers. Other accolades come from residents themselves: 90% of residents recently polled would move here again. The Triangle is known for its NCAA basketball championships, renown medical research facilities, NHL hockey franchise, Triple-A baseball team with a gleaming downtown stadium, award-winning schools, celebrated orchestra and—last but not least—excellent weather. In all, it’s a great place to live.

Whether your interest turns toward education, career opportunity or entertainment, there’s just no place like the Triangle. With 3 universities ranked among US News’ top 50 colleges- Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University – the Triangle attracts brilliant minds and is home to thousands of world-class educators, avid researchers and medical professionals. Research Triangle Park – the largest corporate research park in the country – is home to more than 100 cutting edge research and development companies and fertile ground for entrepreneurs. When it’s time to play the hardest part is choosing between our diverse offering of cultural events, abundant parks, athletic events, shopping, dining or a weekend exploration of the breath taking mountains and sparkling beaches. The continuous accolades create an expectation of excellence in the region’s quality of life, and with few exceptions, the region delivers.

The endearing charm of the Triangle is also reflected in the diverse communities that spread from corner to corner. You’ll find restored brick warehouses, eclectic urban settings, pristine suburban neighborhoods, golf course homes and sprawling horse farms. From bustling city life to small, charismatic towns there is a setting for everyone and a place you’re sure to feel at home in the Triangle.

Accolades

• No. 1 Best Place (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) to Live—MSN House & Home’s America’s Places to Live 2003
• No. 1 Best Place (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) to Live and Work—Employment Review, June 2003
• No. 1 Up and Coming State (North Carolina) in the World of Biotechnology—Ernst & Young, Outlook, May/June 2003
• No. 3 Best Place (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) For Business And Careers—Forbes, May 9, 2003
• No. 4 Picture Perfect Metro (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill)—Plants, Sites & Parks, March 2003
• No. 4 Top Biotechnology States (North Carolina)—Plants, Sites & Parks, March 2003
• No. 1 Best Cities (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) for Education—Forbes (Places Rated Almanac, Millennium Edition), February 14, 2003
• No. 1 State (North Carolina) Business Climate—Site Selection, November 2002
• No. 1 Best Cities (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) for Education—Forbes (Places Rated Almanac, Millennium Edition), February 14, 2003
• No. 1 Healthiest Place (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) to Live – Outlook, July/August 2002

Research Triangle Park

Research Triangle Park encompasses 7,000 acres of North Carolina scenic, pine forest and is home to renown research and development facilities employing more than 45,000 triangle residents. Located between Duke University in Durham, N.C. State University in Raleigh, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill RTP is comprised of pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, semiconductor, microelectronics, biotechnology, textiles and telecommunications companies.

With over 100 research and development facilities, Research Triangle Park is internationally recognized for its cutting-edge research and development. A few of the companies include: IBM, EPA, Cisco Systems, Inc., Sony/Ericsson, Nortel Networks, GlaxoSmithKline, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Overture Networks, and the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.

Within minutes of RDU international airport Research Triangle Park is surrounded by amenity rich communities, schools, hospitals, universities, restaurants and shopping. Commutes from surrounding areas are simplified with the construction of hwy. 540 and there’s never been a better time to live and work in the RTP area.

State Parks and Recreation

North Carolina’s natural beauty is truly awe inspiring and the Triangle provides a natural setting sure to delight every adventurer. From water sports to an enchanting evening under the stars, NC has you covered. In only 2 hours you can arrive at our pristine coastline or reach the breath taking Blue Ridge Mountains. Fortunately, when life holds you close to home you can escape without leaving town at all.

Tucked between the growing cities of Raleigh, Cary, Durham and the corporate world of Research Triangle Park is an oasis of tranquility, a peaceful haven William B. Umstead State Park. This 5,577 acre park is the perfect setting fishing, biking, hiking, horseback riding or an afternoon picnic. You’ll find streams underneath old weathered bridges and a trail to suit every activity.

If water sports are your passion Falls Lake will delight you with crystal clear waters and picturesque surroundings. With 38,000 acres and six recreation areas, Falls Lake, North Carolina is conveniently located in the heart of North Raleigh. Whether you enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, hiking, biking, fishing or camping Falls Lake is a great place to escape the noise of everyday life.

Located just outside of Chapel Hill NC, Jordan Lake’s 14,000 acres of sparkling water is another opportunity for skiing, boating, fishing and camping. With eight recreational areas and ample amenities Jordan Lake makes exploring easy. Only 15 minutes from Raleigh and Cary, Jordan Lake is a convenient “get away” for daytime water sports or evening star gazing.

Truly celebrated, the Eno River is a popular setting for storytelling, exhibits and workshops. In July the annual Festival for the Eno attracts a broad range of performers, activities and spectators. Spanning 33 miles this river is great for whitewater paddling, hiking and guided tours.