First post here. My partner and I are It's a a smaller city city with about 79,035 people. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. The median home value here is around $890,600, which is pretty steep. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? Thanks! Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
11 upvotes
10 Replies
bostonlife2023
100%
39 upvotes
Tyler R.
not my experience at all
30 upvotes
Isla Lopez
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is public transit. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Carol P.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
25 upvotes
Isaiah Parker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 49, moved here 14 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in The Heights and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The job market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K 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.
21 upvotes
Ian Flores
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely tough and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
16 upvotes
Nicholas R.
I work in government here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is solid. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
14 upvotes
Mia Hall
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 3 years. Moved from Charlotte for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is average - 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. East schools are pretty good. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Emily Johnson
Moved here from Charlotte about 15 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to healthcare but No regrets on my end..
10 upvotes
Elijah Green
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely underrated and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Eastside) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
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