First post here. I'm a remote worker and The unemployment rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 17.7%, which is higher than I expected. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development.
14 upvotes
13 Replies
Stella H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from New York about 1 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is underrated.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. No regrets on my end..
40 upvotes
Owen Hernandez
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, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
39 upvotes
Leah H.
Bought a house here in 2016 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
34 upvotes
Harper T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
32 upvotes
Maverick Morris
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to Charlotte it's tough.
28 upvotes
Bryan L.
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The community vibe is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
20 upvotes
Quinn Cruz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Baltimore about 12 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are established, gas is improving.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Definitely worth checking out..
19 upvotes
Elena Price
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 46, moved here 15 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Westside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The school system situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Seattle, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
16 upvotes
Janet C.
facts
8 upvotes
Allison Young
100%
7 upvotes
Grayson Nguyen
Can confirm, been here 14 years.
4 upvotes
Eli B.
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
4 upvotes
Isaac
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is improving in most areas.
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