OK so I'm retired and Rent is about $760/month for a decent place. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Thoughts? Cheers. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
5 upvotes
6 Replies
Maya Cox
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in education. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Philip H.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Raleigh it's improving.
24 upvotes
David Martin
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 3 years. Moved from Raleigh for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are surprisingly good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Rising rent and home prices. Chain restaurants dominate. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Declan Walker
Bought a house here in 2019 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
21 upvotes
Austin Johnson
I work in education here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is challenging. Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Ruby Reed
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 35, moved here 6 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Uptown and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The job market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K 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.
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