With a population under 100,000, the city of Greenville, NC has small town charm mixed with college town excitement. Home to East Carolina University, the third largest university in the state, Greenville churns out some of the best and brightest in the healthcare and education fields. Other major industries include high-tech manufacturing companies including chemical and pharmaceutical.

Here are three big reasons Greenville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country:

1. It has convenient access to major highways, making day trips to coastal beaches or big city attractions a breeze.

2. Four distinct seasons (not to mention short, mild winters) allow for more fun outdoors.

3. Housing prices in Greenville, NC are slightly below the state's average, so building a custom home becomes highly attainable.

What are some fun things to do and see around Greenville, NC?

If you like sports, you can cheer on the ECU Pirates or indulge in a little nostalgia watching a little league game. If you like extreme sports, you'll be happy to know that Greenville has been named BMX Pro Town USA, home to several of the top extreme sport competitors in the country.

For a calmer outing, consider the Umbrella Market (one of the best farmers markets in the state), spend a day kayaking on the Tar River, visit a local brewery, get cultured at the Museum of Art, or break out your lawn chairs for a concert at Summertime Sundays at Greenville Town Common.