Random thought, Military spouse here. Median household income is $124,958, which feels pretty solid for the area. Homes are going for about $698,200 on average. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. What do you all think?
5 upvotes
15 Replies
seattle_ezekiel
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 49, moved here 15 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Tampa, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K 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.
39 upvotes
Everett Murphy
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
37 upvotes
Nolan Gonzalez
Came here for cost of living and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The healthcare is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
30 upvotes
Ariana Nguyen
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to Raleigh it's hit or miss.
26 upvotes
Anthony O.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Matthew C.
I work in real estate here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is challenging. Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Lucy Morales
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
17 upvotes
Landon Evans
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is cultural scene. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
Wyatt
seconding this
15 upvotes
Skylar Flores
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
10 upvotes
Logan Ramirez
Moved here last year, no regrets.
9 upvotes
Dylan K.
same here
5 upvotes
Lucy
honestly same experience here
4 upvotes
Cora
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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