Poverty rate is 4.3%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $377,000, which seems about average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development.
10 upvotes
18 Replies
Luna Lee
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Brooklyn G.
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great farm-to-table places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
34 upvotes
Jack Wright
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Westside. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in construction. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
33 upvotes
jeremiah_girl
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great seafood places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
29 upvotes
Audrey R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 42, moved here 1 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in The Heights and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for retirees. average 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 Charlotte, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
29 upvotes
Delilah Kelly
I've lived in East for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- The dating scene scene is surprisingly good
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for families. Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Avery
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is excellent in most areas.
28 upvotes
Eleanor Morales
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
John Baker
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
18 upvotes
Isabelle Ramirez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from LA about 15 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are competitive, gas is improving.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Ella Mitchell
underrated comment
14 upvotes
Henry Wilson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (East) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
13 upvotes
Audrey Baker
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
13 upvotes
Clara Edwards
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The dating scene is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Daniel S.
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor recreation is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Eliana Morris
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Charlotte it's improving.
5 upvotes
Madeline
spot on
0 upvotes
Roger D.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The nightlife is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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