Military spouse here. The unemployment rate is 6.3%, which is concerning. Crime rate is something to consider -Piedmont sits at 337.1 per 100K. Median household income is $51,896, which feels on the lower side for the area. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. 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. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Mateo Richardson
good to know, thanks
38 upvotes
Sophia Long
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 36, moved here 12 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Westside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The walkability situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for couples. tough vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Miami, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
28 upvotes
grace_living
spot on
18 upvotes
Kaylee R.
yeah no that's not right
13 upvotes
Ralph K.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely challenging and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job 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.
7 upvotes
Isla Cook
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
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