Hi all, The unemployment rate is 5.1%, which is about average. It's a a smaller city city with about 28,833 people. Poverty rate is 22.2%, which is higher than I expected. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. Has anyone dealt with this? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
1 upvotes
7 Replies
Clara L.
I work in healthcare here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is average. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
39 upvotes
Ellie Thomas
thanks for sharing
32 upvotes
Kaylee R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Minneapolis about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is challenging.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Skylar Cox
couldn't agree more
30 upvotes
Landon
noted, appreciate it
30 upvotes
Skylar Thomas
wish I knew this sooner
17 upvotes
Naomi
I've lived in Westside for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
- The nightlife scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..