Whitney Way Thore, star of TLC’s hit series My Big Fat Fabulous Life, is stepping into a new phase of her life — and possibly, a new home. The reality TV personality, who’s spent years living in Greensboro, North Carolina, recently packed up and headed north to Salem, Massachusetts, in what many fans believe is her biggest life change yet.
What We Know for Sure
According to multiple sources, Whitney signed a lease on a charming two-bedroom cottage duplex in Salem around April 2025. The home, featured by Realtor.com, reflects Whitney’s growing desire for simplicity. She reportedly left behind much of her furniture and décor from Greensboro, opting instead for a lighter, cozier setup that mirrors her need for emotional space and peace of mind.
Whitney has also described Salem as a “safe place”, somewhere she can finally breathe without constant attention from the public. Over the years, her fame has made privacy nearly impossible in her hometown. By moving to Massachusetts, she hopes to regain a sense of control — a quiet corner where she can just be herself.
In My Big Fat Fabulous Life Season 13, viewers saw Whitney exploring new surroundings, meeting new friends, and seriously considering a permanent move. She was open about feeling stuck in a rut back home and longing for a “reset.” Salem, with its historic charm and mystical reputation, seemed to offer exactly that.
What’s Still Uncertain
Despite the lease and her growing ties to the area, it’s not entirely clear if Whitney has fully relocated to Massachusetts. Reports indicate she still maintains a residence in Greensboro, and there’s been no official confirmation that she sold or moved out of her longtime home there.
Some fans on Reddit and entertainment forums have speculated that the Salem move might be partially tied to filming — perhaps a creative direction for the show rather than a complete life change. It wouldn’t be the first time reality TV blurred the line between storytelling and real life.
Additionally, it’s unknown whether this move is permanent or experimental. Whitney’s emotional connection to Greensboro — especially after the loss of her mother, Babs — remains deep. For now, she seems to be dividing her time between both states.
A New Energy and Perspective
In interviews, Whitney has said she’s drawn to Salem’s atmosphere — the blend of history, independence, and introspection. She’s begun building friendships there and has spoken about finding comfort in the calm, coastal environment. She even described her new bathroom as her favorite place in the house, a little sanctuary where she can “reset and unwind.”
Those close to her say she’s happier and more grounded, taking on new opportunities with a refreshed mindset. The slower pace of Salem and its creative energy appear to match the personal growth Whitney’s been pursuing since her early days on TLC.
What Comes Next
Whether this move turns out to be a full relocation or a temporary escape, one thing is certain — Whitney Way Thore is embracing change on her own terms. Fans can expect the next season of My Big Fat Fabulous Life to explore this new chapter, offering a closer look at her journey to find balance, belonging, and maybe even a little magic in Massachusetts.