Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
10 upvotes
12 Replies
Sebastian Sanders
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Greenfield area are excellent. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
Quinn R.
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Harper
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 5 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Randy S.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely excellent and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Fairview) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
38 upvotes
sarah_heart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Portland about 8 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is underrated.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
38 upvotes
raleigh_abigail
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
37 upvotes
Angel Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 40, moved here 3 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Westside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Diverse dining options
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. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The walkability situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Houston, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
28 upvotes
Aaliyah Scott
Moved here last year, no regrets.
25 upvotes
Jack T.
noted, appreciate it
12 upvotes
Sadie Richardson
Can confirm, been here 3 years.
10 upvotes
Greyson Castillo
following this thread
6 upvotes
Joe M.
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The job market is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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