“NC is a mess.”

Smufty,

Totally disagree. Grew up in NC, was part of the public school system and know it well from Murphy to Manteo. Although I’ve since moved, still have family & friends up there. Perfect? No, but no state is.

NC vs. CA:

Much lower cost of living
Much lower cost of housing
Much lower sales, property, income taxes
NC Tax Surplus (as discussed)
No real droughts/wildfires
Business friendly
Great job growth
Lower unemployment
Excellent universities-top 6
Much less traffic congestion
Similar Diverse landscape, scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to hundreds of miles of Sandy coastline.

Far from perfect, but lots to appreciate in NC for those that choose to appreciate all of the above!

CA is a nice state to visit, but lots of room for improvement. California still leads the nation in net out-migration.