Been meaning to ask this. Military spouse here. Median household income is $76,174, which feels about average for the area. It's a a smaller city city with about 68,505 people. You can expect to pay around $1,487 for rent here. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. What are your go-to spots? Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
24 upvotes
6 Replies
Aaliyah Flores
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Cedar Grove side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
38 upvotes
Ezra Brown
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Asian places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
37 upvotes
Julia T.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is decent in most areas.
32 upvotes
Wyatt
Bought a house here in 2015 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
27 upvotes
Anna Robinson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 10 years. Moved from Raleigh for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is decent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited high-paying job options. Far from beaches/mountains. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Adam B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 10 years. Moved from Boston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are decent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Winters are long and cold. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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