I'll chime in with NC info....
Charlotte is growing rapidly and has a substantial job market currently. Housing is reasonable, but just a tick on the expensive side depending on which area you locate. Substantial financial, transportation, and many other major industries in the area. Of course, the Concord side of Charlotte is home to all of the NASCAR teams but competition for job openings in that group is stiff.
Raleigh (the capital) is expanding so rapidly it is unbelievable. There are numerous IT related companies in that area such as IBM, Red Hat, Global Training, etc. that are expanding and constantly hiring. It also has a substantial medical, electronic, etc. research area called the Research Triangle Park located between Raleigh and Durham. Many job opportunities in that area.
Greensboro / Winston-Salem / High Point is called the Golden Triad since the cities are all close together. Jobs in certain fields are being recruited for here currently. If you have any aircraft experience, then Greensboro is your bet. The new Honda business jet is being built here and they are constantly adding staff and space since the FAA just approved the jet. Large aircraft maintenance is done here with Timco and Haeco both located here. Harris-Teeter has a large distribution center here if you have experience in food distribution and warehousing. I live right in the center of the Golden Triad in a small town Kernersville, wihich is home to FedEx Ground and Air operations and lots of other transportation companies.
So, add NC to you look at list.
dgi