Anyone else feel this way? I'm retired and The unemployment rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts.
5 upvotes
5 Replies
Kathryn W.
lol so true
37 upvotes
Clara P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 55, moved here 12 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Fairview and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for singles. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
30 upvotes
Hazel
honestly same experience here
28 upvotes
Christian Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Houston about 12 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are developing, gas is better than expected.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Adrian Turner
Bought a house here in 2022 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
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