What is "RT type" area?

Although the taxes are not significantly lower in NC, it is worth noting that Ohio's overall tax burden is one of the worst in the country. (This includes everything - property, city, state, sales taxes, etc.) Every percent adds up, particularly as our federal tax rate will almost certainly increase next year.

We know we eventually want to live in the Carolinas - it's either now when my husband is marketable, or in a decade perhaps, when he may have more difficulty securing a job. So, our decision is certainly not based entirely on tax concerns.

After the kids go to bed, I'll look into the areas you have mentioned. Gretchen - I think "rt" probably means research triangle?

It does...

SanParis, have you not read about what is happening with the Concord mills area. Duke is setting up a research lab there, and others are already there. It is pretty impressive. It isn't a shopping/office mecca like Ballantyne. Anyway.

http://www.ncresearchcampus.net/abou...-institute.php

David Murdoch is the person who bought the area for MILLIONS with this vision.

NC state income taxes are higher than Ohio's (max rate 7.75% plus surcharges in 2009 vs max rate of 6.24% in Ohio). Ohio's top bracket is scheduled to fall to 5.925% in 2011. There is little hope for NC's rate to fall. Our high state tax rates are also responsible for pushing more folks into AMT which can raise their effective federal tax rate paid.

Sales tax is also higher in NC ranging from 7.75% to 8.25% depending on county while Ohio's ranges from 6.25% to 7.00% (only Cuyahoga at 7.75%).

Neal623, Concord and Kannapolis are great towns. Close to Charlotte but not too close.

Ohio is #3 (or #6 depending on what website you look at) for the highest state tax burden - Only Maine and NY are worse. NC, on the otherhand, is #23.

I was talking more about property taxes & such, not necessarily sales & income tax.

Be careful about rankings. It's best that you understand exactly what tax rates you'll be paying if/when you move. For sales and income taxes, they'll be higher in NC. Property tax will depend greatly on what kind of house you buy and where it's located.

I would think Texas would be right up there, their property taxes are outlandish.

Sometimes quality of life trumps taxes. It's all in what you like/want.

Hey there, I was just reading your post and all the answers and was wondering if you ended up moving and to what town. We are relocating from Australia to Charlotte area. We have 4 kids 14 years and under and just like you few years ago we are looking to find good schools and a nice lifestyle. I would love to hear your feed back as its been a while since your post and I am sure you will be an expert by now Thanks

I'd start a new thread. A LOT has changed since 2009 (thank heavens!!).
Where will you be working. Charlotte is a great city. Welcome and let us hear from you.
And maybe the OP will see this and post.
My own daughter and family moved back to Charlotte about 3 years ago so we have some ideas also.

Welcome to Fodors AussieUSA. >>was wondering if you ended up moving and to what town.