Happiest Cities In The Nation List Ranks This North Carolina Spot At Number 7

It's absolutely true that where you live, work, and spend your free time can affect your state of mind and overall happiness.  A new study ranked the happiest cities in the nation.  And, the list ranks one North Carolina spot at number 7.

CBS17 reported that personal finance website SmartAsset looked at factors across 90 of the country's largest cities to find the happiest cities in the nation.  So, guess what?  North Carolina's capital city of Raleigh landed at number 7.

Raleigh often lands on this list when it comes to measuring the quality of life.  And, the ranking of yo-yos depends on the study.

And, a few of the points the study examined in determining the list included a number of residents in the $100,000 + earning range, marriage rates, and health and life expectancy.  But, Raleigh really scored nicely when it came to 'mentally unhealthy' days residents have per month.

According to SmartAsset, the average number of days considered 'mentally unhealthy' for Raleigh residents was just 3.9 per month.  The percentage of households earning $100,000 or more was just over 38%.  And, the life expectancy was 81.6.

Furthermore, the rate of health insurance coverage for one of the happiest cities in the nation hovers right at 90%.  And, the poverty rate for Raleigh is 11%.

Ok, so those are the nuts and bolts with nice pretty numbers and data.  But, happiness is a state of mind, right?  Theoretically, yes.  However, surroundings, earning potential and other factors do impact your state of mind.

Therefore, the way I see it, if you start with a good launch pad, i.e. a city with nice bones, you're off to a good start.  Personally, I have never lived in Raleigh.  But, I know folks who have.  And, one absolutely cherishes her time there.  But, the other wishes to never return.

Plus, if you find yourself in a city with fond memories such as college experiences, that might solidify your happiness scale.  And, there's plenty of that to go around with NC State and nearby UNC.

So, it's an interesting read if you'd like to check out the full SmartAsset study.  By the way, Charlotte is on the list quite a bit further down!

What beach isn't pretty? There is something so beautiful about where the ocean meets the sand that keeps us flocking to the beach. But what are the prettiest Carolina beaches? That's such a hard question as everyone has a favorite. But according to Southern Living Magazine 6 coastal Carolina towns are among the South's prettiest.

But of course, if you've grown up here that should be nothing more than confirmation to you. Though I'll go ahead and spoil it a little for you and let you know that none of the North Carolina towns are on the Outer Banks. I know you OBX people are passionate about your beaches. Sorry to admit I've never been!

Now is the perfect time to book that beach vacation. Whether you want to get a jump start on the summer plans or perhaps take your trip before it gets too crazy! The good news is that at least some of these 6 coastal towns are a little calmer than places like Myrtle Beach.

RELATED: Southern Living Named This Beloved Beach The Best Waterfront Town In North Carolina

The list was curated by Southern Living who let's be honest are the experts when it comes to destinations in the South. These towns are described by the publication as having "charming downtowns, excellent waterfront dining, gracious places to stay, and scenic vistas". All things I certainly look for in a relaxing beach vacation.

They named what they consider the 15 most beautiful coastal towns in the South. So out of 16 having 6 of the prettiest beaches in the Carolinas is something to be proud of. Keep reading to see if your favorite city or beach town made the list. You can read the full Southern Living article here.

Coming in at number 13 on Southern Living's list is Georgetown, SC. This historic town is actually the third oldest in South Carolina so it's filled with history and charm. It's about halfway between larger tourist cities Myrtle Beach and Charleston.

North Carolina's Beaufort is located on the "Inner Banks" and the "Crystal Coast". It's rich in history. In addition to the waterfront and charming downtown, visitors enjoy the two-acre Beaufort Historic Site. 

It's not a list without Charleston making the list. The City of Churches receives constant recognition (not that it isn't deserved!) for its atmosphere as well as its culinary scene. And it's the picture of Southern Charm so what's not to love?

Even if you've never visited South Port may look familiar to you. The historic maritime town has been the backdrop for popular movies like A Walk To Remember and The Secret Life Of Bees.  The town has a fascinating history of pirates and privateers, antebellum Southern belles, and blockade runners. 

Beaufort is located on one of South Carolina's Sea Islands- Port Royal Island. The town is best known for its historic district featuring magnificent antebellum mansions. And features one of my favorite characteristics of Southern towns- Spanish Moss draped live oaks. While I haven't been it's high on my list of road trips I want to take.

And the number 2 prettiest coastal town? It's Wilmington. This Port City on the Cape Fear River is beloved. It features a historic downtown and Riverwalk, house museums, fantastic restaurants and breweries, and the nearby Wrightsville beach. You can read some of my must-dos when visiting Wilmington here.