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Everly Ward best-worst

Best kept secrets of Central, SC

Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm originally from Sacramento and The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Let me know your thoughts. The weather takes some getting used to.
5 upvotes

12 Replies

Frank M.
I've lived in Eastside for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Denver, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Lots of new development happening
- The walkability scene is decent

The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Property taxes are high

Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
31 upvotes
Kinsley Sanders
I've lived in The Heights for about 6 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 Austin, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- The community vibe scene is decent

The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown

Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Aubrey C.
I'm a physical therapist and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is average and there's always something going on.
24 upvotes
Henry W.
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much pricey but now it's better than expected.
23 upvotes
Melanie P.
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Thai places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
20 upvotes
Wyatt
underrated comment
11 upvotes
Nova Long
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Baltimore it's better than expected.
9 upvotes
Maverick Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a project manager, 37, moved here 10 years ago from LA. I've lived in Greenfield and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The walkability situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 LA, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.

**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
7 upvotes
Emily Torres
this is the way
6 upvotes
Greyson L.
bump
2 upvotes
Margaret E.
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
2 upvotes
Jonathan B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Fairview for 7 years. Moved from San Francisco for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. 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 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.

**Employment:**
legal is strong here. finance 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. Fairview schools are challenging. 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. Winters are long and cold. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And cultural scene can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
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