When my husband and I moved to Winston-Salem for Wake Law and Wake Med, we thought this city might just be a temporary chapter. He stayed for residency, I shifted careers, and somehow one year turned into many. We built our family here, grew our careers here, and realized Winston-Salem wasn’t just a stop along the way — it was home.

And we’re not alone. So many physicians come here for training or opportunities, only to discover this city has a way of pulling you in for good.

Here are 5 reasons physicians — including us — end up putting down roots in Winston-Salem:

1. Affordable Luxury That Fits a Physician’s Lifestyle

One of the biggest surprises for relocating physicians is the cost of living here. Dream homes that would be unattainable in bigger cities are well within reach in Winston-Salem. Whether it’s a historic Ardmore home near the hospitals, a newer build in Sherwood Forest, old charm in Buena Vista or a luxury property in Brookberry Farm, physicians often find they can get more home — and more lifestyle — for less.

2. A Built-In Physician Community

Residency and fellowship years create bonds that last a lifetime. Physicians who train here often keep those friendships alive, which makes staying — or moving back — even more appealing. The physician network in Winston-Salem is strong, supportive, and deeply rooted in the community.

3. Family-Friendly Lifestyle

For physicians balancing demanding schedules with family life, Winston-Salem offers the best of both worlds. Neighborhoods are walkable, schools are highly rated, and there are endless family-friendly spaces like Tanglewood Park, local playgrounds, and youth sports leagues. Even with long shifts, physicians find their families can thrive here.

4. Career Longevity Without Another Move

With both Wake Forest Baptist and Novant Health in the area, physicians have opportunities for research, teaching, and leadership without needing to uproot again. Many who planned to “just do residency here” find themselves staying because their career paths can continue to grow.

5. Charm + Culture That Keeps Evolving

Winston-Salem has transformed over the last decade into a vibrant city without losing its small-town charm. Breweries, coffee shops, farmers markets, local restaurants, and developments like The Grounds near Wake Forest create a lively community that feels both modern and approachable.

Wrap-Up:
For us, Winston-Salem became more than a chapter — it became the foundation for our careers, our family, and our future. If you’re a physician considering a move (or a return), know this: Winston has a way of becoming home.

👉 Want to explore neighborhoods physicians love most? [Download my free Relocation Guide] or [reach out today].