Hi all, What do you all think? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
7 Replies
Caleb C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Minneapolis about 14 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
29 upvotes
Jeremiah Watson
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in East area are decent. Kids love it here.
29 upvotes
Caleb Ramos
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
22 upvotes
Janet C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 39, moved here 8 years ago from Miami. I've lived in East and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
18 upvotes
Leo James
Moved here from Charlotte about 14 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to nightlife but Good luck with whatever you decide..
11 upvotes
Axel Hernandez
Saving this thread
4 upvotes
Emily Scott
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 6 years. Moved from Raleigh for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. retail 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Eastside schools are average. 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 public transit options. Winters are long and cold. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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