Raleigh
The capital of North Carolina and one half of the the Raleigh-Durham metroplex, Raleigh offers access to amenities and employment opportunities not found in other parts of the state. The local economy has long been on the cutting edge, with thriving science and technology jobs — thanks to the city’s location in the Research Triangle Park — and a growing community of entrepreneurs in the city; in fact, Forbes magazine has consistently placed Raleigh high on its list of best places for businesses and careers. A thriving downtown district complete with a variety of apartments and a vibrant arts scene makes Raleigh popular with students and professionals as well as families. Located only a couple of hours from the mountains and the ocean, Raleigh is a centrally located city that has been experiencing a population boom for the past decade. Dubbed the "Smithsonian of the South," Raleigh offers more than 40 free attractions and museums to keep you steeped in culture. There are museums of art, history, and technology, plus a children’s museum for younger patrons. The Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts is a massive multi-stage venue that hosts the North Carolina Symphony, the Carolina Ballet, and a variety of other productions throughout the year.
Waldorf
Waldorf sits 23 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., making it the largest residential and commercial hub in Southern Maryland and a practical base for anyone working in or around the capital. What began as a small tobacco market village has grown into a sprawling suburban community of more than 84,000 residents, shaped in large part by its proximity to federal employment centers and Joint Base Andrews. The St. Charles planned community anchors much of the residential landscape, with distinct villages like Dorchester, Westlake, and Smallwood each offering their own character, from lakeside walking paths to tree-lined neighborhood streets. Housing options run the range from townhomes and garden-style apartment communities to larger single-family rentals, giving renters real variety across price points. Regency Furniture Stadium, home of the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs minor league baseball team, adds a local anchor to weekend life, and the Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House Museum connects residents to one of American history's more dramatic chapters. Waldorf rewards those who want breathing room and suburban ease without straying far from one of the country's most active metro corridors.
Saint Charles
Located about 20 miles south of Washington DC, Saint Charles is a family-friendly and charming suburb filled with cozy neighborhoods and mature trees. This master-planned community has a terrific blend of residential and commercial districts, attractive parks, and ample sidewalks connecting each. Saint Charles is between White Plains and Waldorf and is surrounded by forests and park space. Saint Charles is a popular shopping destination, home to St. Charles Towne Center, a large indoor mall, along with a variety of shopping plazas like Shops at Waldorf Center and Charles County Plaza Shopping Center. The shopping and dining options extend along Crain Highway, all the way into neighboring Waldorf and past popular destinations like Dat Jerk Caribbean Chargrill Waldorf and Kodori. On sunny days, residents head to community parks like White Plains Park Playground, Dog Park White Plains, and the White Plains Golf Course.
