Longtime lurker here, I'm originally from Charlotte and Poverty rate is 20.2%, which is higher than I expected. Average temperature is around 72--F, so it's warm year-round. You can expect to pay around $997 for rent here. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
Pros:
- Low taxes
- Walkable downtown
- Active local events
Cons:
- Cold winters
- Rising rent prices
- Sprawl everywhere
- High property taxes
- Chain restaurants dominate
Should I be concerned? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
29 upvotes
8 Replies
Ariana
yep
39 upvotes
Axel M.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 15 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to dating scene but Feel free to reach out with questions..
33 upvotes
Ariana Roberts
lol so true
26 upvotes
Owen Martin
I've lived in Fairview for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The cultural scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
23 upvotes
Brooks W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 37, moved here 2 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Riverside and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Portland, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K 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.
22 upvotes
Genesis Bennett
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Midtown. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in consulting. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Ezra Hill
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
5 upvotes
Adeline Cruz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is tough in most areas.
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