Median household income is $63,836, which feels about average for the area. Poverty rate is 7.8%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Worth the trade-offs? The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
47 upvotes
8 Replies
Ruby M.
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
35 upvotes
Nicholas Edwards
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 54, moved here 5 years ago from Portland. I've lived in East and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Portland, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Sophia Hughes
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
21 upvotes
Melanie Rogers
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
houstonheart2025
wish I knew this sooner
13 upvotes
Weston R.
yeah no that's not right
11 upvotes
Adeline Morris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely pretty good and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Riverside) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
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