New Bern is a beautiful old waterfront town, two hours from Raleigh and not far at all from some very nice beaches. Loaded with history, established 1710, a colonial era capital, Tryon Palace is there. Settled by Swiss hence the name. Long popular with retirees. Far enough inland that hurricane damage is most often relegated to minor flooding and minor wind damage. I’ve always loved the town flag, almost medieval looking, more of an heraldic banner with a bear, the symbol of the town and the mascot of New Bern High.
Not that expensive, either. I can see why it’s booming. If I were more oriented to coast living rather than mountain, it would be on my list.