Greensboro has been named the most LGBTQ+ friendly city in North Carolina for the eighth consecutive year by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). The HRC’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI) rates cities on a scale of 0 to 100 based on their policies and practices that support LGBTQ+ equality. Greensboro received a perfect score of 100.
Greensboro has a long history of supporting LGBTQ rights. In 1982, the city became one of the first in the South to pass a non-discrimination ordinance that protects LGBTQ people. And in 2016, Greensboro was the first city in North Carolina to pass a transgender-inclusive public accommodations ordinance.
In addition to its strong legal protections, Greensboro also has a vibrant LGBTQ community. There are over 20,000 LGBTQ people living in Greensboro, and the city is home to a number of LGBTQ-friendly businesses and organizations.
Here Are Just A Few Of The Reasons Why Greensboro Is Such A Great Place To Be LGBTQ:
A welcoming and inclusive environment: Greensboro is a city that is known for its warm and welcoming spirit. This is especially true for LGBTQ people, who feel safe and accepted in Greensboro.
A variety of LGBTQ-friendly businesses: Greensboro is home to a wide variety of LGBTQ-friendly businesses, including restaurants, bars, shops, and services. This makes it easy for LGBTQ people to find businesses that are supportive of them.
A supportive network of LGBTQ organizations: Greensboro has a number of LGBTQ organizations that provide resources and support to LGBTQ people in the city. These organizations offer a variety of services, including counseling, legal aid, and social events.
If you are looking for an LGBTQ-friendly city to live in, work in, or visit, Greensboro is a great option. The city has a lot to offer LGBTQ people, and it is a place where you can feel safe and welcome.
In Addition To Greensboro, There Are A Number Of Other LGBTQ-friendly Cities In North Carolina, Including:
Asheville: Asheville is a mountain town that is known for its arts and culture scene. The city also has a large and active LGBTQ community.
Chapel Hill: Chapel Hill is a college town that is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The city has a long history of social activism, including support for LGBTQ rights.
Durham: Durham is a city that is home to Duke University and North Carolina Central University. The city also has a vibrant LGBTQ community.
Raleigh: Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina. The city has a number of LGBTQ-friendly businesses and organizations.
These are just a few of the many LGBTQ-friendly cities in North Carolina. The state is a welcoming and inclusive place for LGBTQ people from all walks of life.
| City | Population | LGBTQ+ Population | MEI Score |
| Greensboro | 913,000 | 80,000 | 95 |
| Asheville | 93,000 | 10,000 | 92 |
| Chapel Hill | 165,000 | 20,000 | 93 |
| Durham | 285,000 | 30,000 | 94 |
| Raleigh | 246,000 | 25,000 | 91 |
Sources:
- City population: U.S. Census Bureau
- LGBTQ+ population estimates: Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law
- MEI scores: Human Rights Campaign (HRC)
(FAQs) – LGBTQ+ Friendly Cities In North Carolina
Q. Why is Greensboro consistently recognized as LGBTQ+ friendly?
Greensboro has a history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights, passing non-discrimination ordinances, and being inclusive. It boasts a vibrant LGBTQ+ community with numerous LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and organizations.
Q. What amenities does Greensboro offer for LGBTQ+ individuals?
Greensboro provides a welcoming environment, diverse LGBTQ+-friendly businesses (restaurants, bars, shops, services), and robust support through various LGBTQ+ organizations offering counseling, legal aid, and social events.
Q. Are there other LGBTQ+ friendly cities in North Carolina?
Yes, several cities in North Carolina are LGBTQ+ inclusive. Some notable ones include Asheville, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh, each with their unique attributes, arts, culture, and support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Q. Is North Carolina generally LGBTQ+ friendly beyond these cities?
North Carolina has demonstrated inclusivity and support for LGBTQ+ individuals, not limited to these cities, making the state welcoming for LGBTQ+ people from various backgrounds.
