Moving south in the next few years

[MelissaRae]

My family will be moving south in about 2-3 years.  I am starting my research early.  I am looking to find out what areas in NC, SC, or TN are the most affordable and safe areas to live.  I would like to know the best schools in the areas as well. 

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Thank you all :)

[siddal]

I recommend the website city-data.com  Lots of helpful statistics and also has forums for discussing cities. HTH

[seposte]

Dorchester district 2 schools in Summerville Sc are top ranked. Low crime. Average cost of living. Lots of young families.

[DoulaHeidi]

We moved to the Middle Tennessee area a couple of years ago and love it here!  It is beautiful and quiet.  I'd say it's a fairly low-crime area, but you should research that - we live in the country, not the city.  Look into the area north of Nashville and up towards Clarksville, as it will be a lower cost of living than the area just south of Nashville (Brentwood, Franklin, etc.).  You could also consider Murfreesboro, which is a quickly growing city about an hour south of Nashville.