Anyone else feel this way? The unemployment rate is 1.9%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $76,983, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 50°F, so expect cold winters. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
51 upvotes
11 Replies
Ruby Wood
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 30, moved here 7 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Old Town and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited shopping options
3. The walkability situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
36 upvotes
Thomas Young
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Highland. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in consulting. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
32 upvotes
Silas Stewart
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
Silas Parker
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Pine Hills. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in retail. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
30 upvotes
Karen R.
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Madelyn
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. No regrets on my end..
19 upvotes
urban_silas80
seconding this
19 upvotes
cool_valentina90
nah I disagree
18 upvotes
Evan Bennett
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Delilah Walker
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much stable but now it's average.
11 upvotes
Paisley Rodriguez
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
All Countries
