North Carolina offers a unique blend of urban excitement, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes. Its vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities make it a dynamic and appealing state for residents and visitors.

Union Inclusion Date: North Carolina was admitted to the Union on November 21, 1789, becoming the 12th state of the United States. Its inclusion came shortly after the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, solidifying its role in the early formation of the nation.

State Flower: The state flower of North Carolina is the Dogwood. Known for its delicate white blossoms, the Dogwood was designated the state flower in 1941 and is celebrated for its beauty and significance in local ecosystems.

State Tree: The Longleaf Pine is North Carolina’s state tree. Officially designated in 1963, this tree is valued for its strength and versatility, historically contributing to the state’s naval stores industry.

State Animal: The state animal of North Carolina is the Eastern Gray Squirrel. Designated in 1969, this agile and adaptable creature is commonly found throughout the state’s forests and urban areas.

Current Population: North Carolina has a population of approximately 10.7 million residents. The state has seen significant growth, reflecting its economic opportunities, vibrant cities, and attractive living conditions.

Elevation: North Carolina’s elevation ranges from sea level along the Atlantic coast to 6,684 feet at Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern United States. This variation provides a diverse landscape, from coastal plains to the Appalachian Mountains.

Weather: North Carolina experiences a humid subtropical climate in most of the state, with a subtropical highland climate in the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures in the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit, while winters are generally mild, with temperatures in the 30s to 50s Fahrenheit. The state receives ample rainfall, averaging 40-50 inches annually, and is occasionally affected by hurricanes and severe weather.

Main Tourist Attractions: North Carolina offers a wide range of tourist attractions, appealing to history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Key attractions include the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S.; the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty; and the Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands famous for their pristine beaches and historical sites such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Other notable attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway, the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, and the historic city of Wilmington.

Main Industries: North Carolina’s economy is diverse, with major industries including finance, biotechnology, manufacturing, and agriculture. The state is a leading financial hub, particularly in Charlotte, which is home to major banks. The Research Triangle Park, located between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, is a global center for biotechnology and research. North Carolina also has a strong manufacturing sector, producing textiles, furniture, and tobacco products. Agriculture remains vital, with the state being a top producer of sweet potatoes, tobacco, and poultry.

National Parks: North Carolina is home to several national parks and protected areas that highlight its natural beauty and historical significance. Notable parks include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which spans the North Carolina-Tennessee border; the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning views of the Appalachian Highlands; and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, known for its lighthouse and rugged coastline.

Lakes: North Carolina boasts numerous lakes that provide recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. Some of the largest and most popular lakes include Lake Norman, the largest man-made lake in the state; Lake Gaston, known for boating and fishing; and Jordan Lake, a major recreational area near Raleigh.

Government Type: North Carolina operates under a republican form of government, consisting of three branches: the executive, led by the Governor; the legislative, which includes the North Carolina General Assembly (a bicameral body with the House of Representatives and the Senate); and the judicial, headed by the North Carolina Supreme Court. The state capital is Raleigh.

Government Contact Telephone Numbers: For inquiries and information, residents and visitors can contact key North Carolina government offices at the following numbers:

• North Carolina Governor’s Office: (919) 814-2000
• North Carolina General Assembly: (919) 733-7928
• North Carolina Secretary of State: (919) 814-5400
• North Carolina Department of Commerce: (919) 814-4600

5 Most Populous Cities:

Charlotte: As the largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte has a population of approximately 900,000 residents. It is a major financial center, home to several Fortune 500 companies and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Raleigh: The state capital, Raleigh, has a population of around 480,000. It is known for its research and educational institutions, particularly those within the Research Triangle.

Greensboro: With a population of about 300,000, Greensboro is known for its historical significance in the civil rights movement and its vibrant arts scene.

Durham: Durham, with approximately 285,000 residents, is part of the Research Triangle and home to Duke University and numerous tech companies.

Winston-Salem: This city has around 250,000 residents and is known for its history in the tobacco industry, as well as its growing arts and innovation sectors.