Median household income is $77,124, which feels about average for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
27 upvotes
15 Replies
charlottelover2025
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The pet-friendliness is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
lake_carter57
big facts right here
37 upvotes
Benjamin C.
big facts right here
34 upvotes
seattle_reagan
been saying this for years
34 upvotes
Hannah Miller
honestly same experience here
33 upvotes
Leah Torres
Moved here from San Francisco about 7 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to housing market but No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Ellie C.
Came here for school and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The dating scene is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
21 upvotes
true_charlotte50
Totally agree!
19 upvotes
Hannah G.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from LA about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Reagan M.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
sofia_chef
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
12 upvotes
Allison W.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Eastside. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in government. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
12 upvotes
Logan Ramos
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
11 upvotes
Ezra Thomas
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Miles Cook
I work in hospitality here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is decent. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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