Longtime lurker here, We have two kids and Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Thoughts? Any help is appreciated. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Savannah Lopez
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Valentina
following this thread
32 upvotes
Kai White
been saying this for years
25 upvotes
Jordan Ruiz
bump
24 upvotes
Piper S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 51, moved here 3 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in East and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Lots of new development happening
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. Limited public transit options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The public transit situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for retirees. solid 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 Chicago, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
23 upvotes
Jonathan Murphy
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
23 upvotes
Cora M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely hit or miss 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 Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene 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.
22 upvotes
Noah H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 55, moved here 4 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Lakewood and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
20 upvotes
Victoria Young
as a local I can confirm
17 upvotes
Michael Morales
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
17 upvotes
Genesis Anderson
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
16 upvotes
Declan Long
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The school system is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
7 upvotes
Cameron Baker
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the The Heights side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
6 upvotes
Evelyn T.
wish I knew this sooner
4 upvotes
Ava
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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