Born and raised here. Median household income is $88,603, which feels pretty solid for the area. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Worth the trade-offs? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
8 upvotes
1 Replies
Zoe Alvarez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 58, moved here 5 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Westside and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The food scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- West: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Raleigh, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
All Countries
