Hello, It's a a smaller city city with about 42,612 people. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
17 upvotes
11 Replies
raleighdude2024
I'm a social worker and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is average and there's always something going on.
40 upvotes
Lillian Morales
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Happy to answer more specific questions..
32 upvotes
James James
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in West. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in education. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Jayden Lewis
Saving this thread
20 upvotes
Scott F.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Kai Nelson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Eastside. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in construction. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
Anna Flores
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Pine Hills. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in real estate. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
living_ryan38
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 35, moved here 10 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Oak Park and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for remote workers. hit or miss 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
4 upvotes
Violet Kelly
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
3 upvotes
addison_heart
I work in legal here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is average. No regrets on my end..