Been meaning to ask this. I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 1.4%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What would you do? Appreciate any input. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
4 upvotes
10 Replies
Roman Hall
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Southern places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
38 upvotes
Dylan Carter
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 3 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Serenity A.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from San Diego about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are affordable, gas is tough.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
35 upvotes
Mateo Richardson
it depends on the neighborhood
32 upvotes
Sadie R.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Wesley A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 35, moved here 14 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Uptown 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. Low crime in most neighborhoods
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The public transit situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for remote workers. decent 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 Charlotte, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K 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.
14 upvotes
Lucas Cook
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
14 upvotes
Zachary B.
I work in marketing here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Definitely worth checking out..
10 upvotes
Scarlett R.
Came here for weather and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The healthcare is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
7 upvotes
Adam A.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Baltimore it's better than expected.
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