Tarboro holds the remains of Civil War general William Dorsey Pender, who was wounded during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. He is buried at Calvary Churchyard and has given his name to Pender County in North Carolina as tribute to what he accomplished.
The town itself is situated in Edgecombe County in the Inner Banks region of North Carolina. Tarboro is a historic town, with several historic sites dating back to the 19th century. In fact, the historic area of Tarboro comprises 45 blocks, with more than 300 ancient structures built within them. These range from historic houses and residential dwellings to churches and original storefronts that are still used today along the city's Main Street. The location allows for a small-town feel within the wider context of the state. Interstate 95 and U.S. 94 are nearby and allow simple access to some of the major urban areas in the region, such as the state capital of Raleigh, which is roughly 70 miles away. Greenville is only 25 miles away, and Rocky Mount is just 10. The town is known to be friendly with a great sense of local community and a mild and comfortable climate year round.
Moving to Tarboro
The city of Tarboro is closed off from major urban areas beyond, aside from the towns of Rocky Mount and Greenville, which are within commuting distance. There is a thriving and self-sufficient economy in Tarboro, with plenty of work to be found for anyone venturing out into the workforce. Crime rates are low, and you tend to get a good bang for your buck when renting, with a relatively low cost of housing for the state and nation as a whole.
Housing in Tarboro
Just about every style of housing -- from townhouses to bungalows and studio apartments -- are available in Tarboro, making it ideal for just about anyone, whether they're arriving solo or with a few munchkins nipping at their heels. There are over 4,500 houses on offer, so there's plenty to go around. Rental houses in Tarboro are common and come in all shapes and sizes, while rental apartments and condos are plentiful as well. All in all, you shouldn't have too much trouble finding somewhere that fits your individual needs.
What to expect
When you arrive in Tarboro, expect to find a tight knit community with residents who will actually stop on street corners and talk to each other. This is a place where people know just about everyone else by name, with festivals and local events drawing everyone together. There's a gregariousness to the people of Tarboro, and living standards are excellent. Commutes are short and easy around the local area, and there are loads of clubs and recreational opportunities for you to get involved in for fun. It's like one big happy family, and they'd be happy to adopt you!
Neighborhoods in Tarboro
Cruise 'round Tarboro and you'll probably fall in love with the place pretty quickly, but it's important to keep your head together and think rationally about which of the city's major areas might be best to settle in. That starts with checking out the local neighborhoods. If you've got a job in town already (and that's certainly advisable if you want to find a new home quickly), you might want to live nearby to cut down on your commute. Maybe, however, you'd prefer to live out in the more rural areas beyond the city center. Whatever your preferences, it's important to take a gander around before your realtor starts dragging you about town on a wild goose chase.
City Center: Main Street, located in the downtown area, runs conveniently through the city center, and it's great for a stroll with its old storefronts and beautiful residences. You might just as well find a lovely home for rent near the historic district, but be prepared to pay a little bit more for the privilege. There are plenty of eating options through here as well, such as Bud's Grill, Addie's Main Street Cafe and On the Square.
W Howard Avenue / Western Boulevard: More residential streets exist here, as well as a cinema for catching the latest blockbuster and a McDonald's along Western Boulevard.
Route 33 / E Northern Boulevard: This neighborhood encompasses the north of Tarboro and stretches up beyond to the Tarboro-Edgecombe Airport if you fancy a few flying lessons or a tour of the local area. You'll also find world-class medical facilities here at Vidant Hospital.
Hartsboro / Hartsease: This rural area sits beyond the city with plenty of three- to four-bedroom houses. This is great if you're looking for somewhere quieter to reside, but you're not going to find any townhouses for rent out here. What you will get, however, is easy access to The Links at Cotton Valley Golf Club and Edgecombe Memorial Park down in the southeast, and if you choose to live in the west, you'd be just a stone's throw from Rocky Mount.
Living in Tarboro
Tarboro prides itself on its community spirit and the friendly nature of its locals, so if you're coming from a big city, you'll just need to get into that small town frame of mind. People shockingly smile at each other, there's barely any traffic and everyone works in small local businesses. That shouldn't be too difficult of an adjustment, right?
It's a great spot for lovers of the outdoors, with lots of walking trails, hiking options and rich nature awaiting you. If you enjoy fishing and boating, the Tar River is right there, and the Links at Cotton Valley and Hilma Country Club golf courses will keep keen golfers busy all through the year.
There are loads of annual events throughout the year, such as the "Happening on the Common" arts festival in May and the Tarboro Christmas Parade that goes straight up Main Street. There are also shopping centers and plenty of restaurants all over town, with the Tarboro Shopping Center and Colonial Plaza Shopping Center being just two of note.
Being so close to Interstate 95 and U.S. 94 is also pretty helpful, and there are buses that run on various routes through town. In addition, there's a commercial rail service nearby in Rocky Mount which runs a twice-daily service both north and south to the major cities in both directions.
Tarboro is ideal for escaping the bustle of the big city while still remaining close enough to visit when the need strikes. You'll never bore of recreational fun, and the local assortment of restaurants, shopping and scenic views are sure to please.