Alright, Just moved here 2 months ago and Average temperature is around 37--F, so bundle up in winter. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Should I be concerned? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
12 upvotes
13 Replies
Hannah O.
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's decent.
40 upvotes
Sofia Young
accurate
39 upvotes
desert_stella84
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
38 upvotes
Isabelle W.
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
37 upvotes
Paisley
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The public transit is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
33 upvotes
Violet Anderson
bump
28 upvotes
Ann P.
Used to live on the West side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
20 upvotes
Jordan Scott
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in North area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Samuel M.
Moved here from Boston about 15 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to job market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
lake_kai67
I've lived in Downtown for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The food scene scene is improving
The downsides:
- Dating scene is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
11 upvotes
Robert
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The dating scene is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
10 upvotes
Isaiah Mendoza
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 26, moved here 11 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Meadowbrook and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited shopping options
3. The safety situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
2 upvotes
Austin M.
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, No regrets on my end..