FIRE Number for Charlotte, United States

You can rent a one-bedroom in Plaza Midwood or NoDa and cook most meals at home, with casual Southern restaurants and food trucks a couple of times a week. Charlotte's greenway trails and free festivals provide regular entertainment, and the mild climate keeps utility costs moderate. A car is needed for most errands, but the LYNX light rail covers the uptown corridor.

You can rent a house in Myers Park or Eastover and dine regularly at Charlotte's top restaurants. Season tickets to the Panthers or Hornets, a private golf membership, and regular weekend trips to Asheville or the Outer Banks fit comfortably. Good private healthcare and a late-model car for mountain drives round out a comfortable life in one of Charlotte's tree-lined historic neighborhoods.

Premium housing in Myers Park or a lakefront property on Lake Norman, regular fine dining, a cook who comes several times a week, and a housekeeper. First class travel, full concierge healthcare, and a private box at Bank of America Stadium for Panthers games. Charlotte's affordable cost base means this budget covers everything without strain, and the city's position as a major financial center provides a social scene oriented around business and philanthropy.