You can check out Nextel coverage here - http://www.nextel.com/en/coverage/index.shtml - just click on your area to zoom in on the map. I'm not from there, so I can't tell you from experience how it is, but the maps will give you a general idea.

If you want a rugged and durable phone, the i870 is probably not the best choice. Though all Nextel phones are pretty solid compared to other carriers, check out the i530 and i560 flip phones. Here's a link - http://nextelonline.nextel.com/NASApp/onlines tore/en/Action/DisplayPhones?audience=INDIVID UAL&id12=Personal_Wireless;Phones&language=EN . These two phones are truly rugged and they meet military standards. I have an i530 and it is an awesome no-frills phone. Also, a new rugged phone wit...
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I'm sorry, the second link I gave didn't post correctly. Please take the space out between 'onlines' and 'tore', and also between 'INDIVID' and 'UAL'. Then it will work.

the i870 is a great phone.. i got it the other day.. i like it.. i am sure nextel works fine in NC but there is a trial so you should use it.