Median household income is $51,023, which feels on the lower side for the area. Homes are going for about $325,500 on average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Does this match your experience? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
4 upvotes
6 Replies
Jack
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
36 upvotes
Scarlett Williams
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Cedar Grove area are decent. Kids love it here.
12 upvotes
John J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 24, moved here 10 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Eastside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
12 upvotes
Nevaeh Ruiz
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
10 upvotes
Jace Stewart
Moved here from Austin about 9 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to cost of living but No regrets on my end..
9 upvotes
Ian Harris
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Downtown. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in retail. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like sushi.
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