Just moved here 16 months ago and Poverty rate is 9.0%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What neighborhoods would you suggest? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
8 upvotes
11 Replies
mountain_everly65
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
36 upvotes
Benjamin Carter
Can confirm, been here 2 years.
29 upvotes
Santiago W.
this is the way
27 upvotes
Brooks G.
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The food scene is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
Easton
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
22 upvotes
Josiah Sanders
spot on
21 upvotes
Paul M.
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
6 upvotes
Mackenzie K.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely decent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Midtown) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
5 upvotes
Natalie M.
Came here for work and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
3 upvotes
desert_wesley67
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
1 upvotes
Jeremiah L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 15 years. Moved from Raleigh for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2017 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have hiking trails 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 average. 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. Far from beaches/mountains. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, 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.