Greenville and Pitt County have become a focal point of interest recently for people looking to relocate or retire to an area with good access to culture, recreation, health care, and a moderate year-round climate.
Greenville and Pitt County is showing up on the radar screens over the last number of years for many people interested in relocating or retiring. A number of factors have caused this. Several recent recognitions by national publications have ranked Greenville and Pitt County in the top for categories such as best places for manufacturing, top labor force, best small places for businesses and careers, best performing small metros, Sportstown USA, and Playful City USA. However, there are other elements present in the area that make it inherently attractive including the location of the third largest university in the state as well as a top-notch regional health care center.
Greenville and Pitt County have emerged as the commercial, cultural, educational and medical hub of Eastern North Carolina. Greenville, the county seat, has grown into a thriving small metropolitan city of over 80,000; Pitt County has a total population of 156,000. Greenville has direct four-lane highway access from all NC borders and five daily direct flights to Charlotte. Geographic location and easy affordability make the area a repeat choice for travelers that are enticed to come back and stay. A mild climate makes outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, and fishing accessible year round. Close proximity to the NC coast for day trips make it attractive to those wanting to be close to the beach but have the protection from hurricanes of a more inland destination.
Two of the anchor assets in the area include East Carolina University and University Health Systems of Eastern North Carolina, affiliated with the Brody School of Medicine. ECU is a nationally recognized doctoral research institution offering a wide range of graduate and undergraduate programs. In addition to being home to Pirate athletics, ECU hosts numerous performances and exhibitions that showcase the talent of world-famous as well as aspiring student artists. University Health Systems represents one of the largest health care systems in the state and along with the School of Medicine ranks as one of the best in the emerging fields of telemedicine and robotic surgery. The system includes Pitt County Memorial Hospital, seven community hospitals, physician practices, home health and other independently operated health services.
Perhaps one of the most common attributes of the city that people mention when visiting is the friendliness of the people. Although the city possesses a wealth of big-city amenities, it still retains a certain small-town charm and Southern hospitality.