Does this match your experience? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
3 upvotes
1 Replies
Billy M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 9 years. Moved from Raleigh for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
legal is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is tough - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West 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. Urban sprawl is real. Can feel isolated. And outdoor recreation 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.