Not sure if this has been asked before, but Born and raised here. Poverty rate is 20.7%, which is higher than I expected. Crime rate is something to consider -Roanoke Rapids sits at 891.7 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $816 for rent here. The median home value here is around $129,400, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
Pros:
- Great weather
- Walkable downtown
- Active local events
- Good airport connections
Cons:
- Limited public transit
- High property taxes
- Lack of diversity
- Limited cultural events
Thanks! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up.
6 upvotes
12 Replies
Thomas D.
I'm a real estate agent and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
36 upvotes
Nova Chavez
Moved here from Raleigh about 10 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to public transit but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Luna Harris
Saving this thread
29 upvotes
Nolan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 49, moved here 12 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Highland and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The outdoor recreation situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for retirees. average vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K 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
Chloe Castillo
I've lived in Fairview for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- The cultural scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Mia A.
lol so true
17 upvotes
Ethan Y.
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
16 upvotes
Mia
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
Reagan Cruz
I work in hospitality here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is improving. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
13 upvotes
Scarlett W.
lol so true
2 upvotes
Luke Gonzalez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 4 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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