Anyone else feel this way? I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $411,000 on average. The median home value here is around $411,000, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Is this normal for Asheville? The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
2 upvotes
22 Replies
Genesis Hall
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Quinn King
couldn't agree more
38 upvotes
Ruby Ruiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 4 years. Moved from Houston for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Can feel isolated. Limited entertainment options. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Emmett Harris
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Jackson Young
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
31 upvotes
Emily Richardson
100%
30 upvotes
Logan Moore
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Hope this helps!.
27 upvotes
Riley W.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Baltimore it's surprisingly good.
27 upvotes
Roman Green
underrated comment
26 upvotes
Oliver Lopez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 13 years. Moved from Houston for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Far from beaches/mountains. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Henry Edwards
Bought a house here in 2016 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
23 upvotes
Axel Harris
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Asian places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
22 upvotes
Hunter M.
good to know, thanks
19 upvotes
Ella B.
I've lived in Midtown for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The school system scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
18 upvotes
Nova Richardson
This.
18 upvotes
Audrey Kim
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's tough.
14 upvotes
houstonkid2026
nah I disagree
10 upvotes
Clara Thompson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Christopher N.
exactly what I was thinking
9 upvotes
Amelia Ramos
thanks for sharing
3 upvotes
coastal_hunter15
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
2 upvotes
Jace W.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.