Apex ranked third best place to move in U.S.

Factors in the ranking included the percentage of residents who were born out-of-state or abroad, have moved from a considerable distance in the past five years and moved for a better job opportunity. The list ranked communities with populations over 25,000 and used U.S Census Bureau data from 2005 to 2007.

Of Apex's population of 33,601, 65 percent of residents weren't born in Wake County and 36 percent moved in the past five years.

"We are all so pleased that our town has attracted this kind of positive national recognition," Mayor Keith H. Weatherly said in a statement.

"For many years, the town has worked with ... to make newcomers feel welcome," he continued. "We are so encouraged when newcomers tell us that they find Apex to be one of the best places to get a job, find a nice home in an attractive neighborhood, raise a family and enjoy a safe and happy lifestyle."

Other factors included Apex's population growth, its median family income of $91,328, median home value of $225,100, and the 55 percent of its adults who have at least a bachelor degree. The high rate of professional and proximity to multinational companies also helped out the town's ranking.

"We have tried to maintain a delicate balance of managing our growth, ... keeping taxes low, creating attractive and affordable neighborhoods, supporting local schools, ... offering diverse recreation programs and keeping crime out," Weatherly said.

Calls to the town offices and the local chamber of commerce are up since the ranking was announced, town officials said.

"We continue to have so many people from everywhere wanting to know more about Apex," Town Manager Bruce Radford said. "We are always so glad to share as we can about opportunities in Apex. This is a very welcoming community."

"Our slogan is, 'Apex – the peak of good living.' I am so glad that everyone knows it's more than a slogan," Weatherly said.