Longtime lurker here, Median household income is $115,586, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's a a smaller city city with about 59,818 people. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
20 upvotes
11 Replies
Charlotte Moore
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
tulsalife2020
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Old Town. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in consulting. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
32 upvotes
Autumn Brooks
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
Axel Wilson
as a local I can confirm
27 upvotes
Delilah R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 14 years. Moved from Charlotte for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests 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 challenging. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Nightlife is limited. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
houstonguy2022
underrated comment
15 upvotes
Ruth R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 6 years. Moved from Dallas for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is improving - 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. North schools are tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited shopping options. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Emilia Brooks
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
9 upvotes
Alexander Anderson
not my experience at all
5 upvotes
Silas
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Tampa about 3 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are competitive, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
4 upvotes
Xavier Roberts
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is challenging in most areas.
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