Cleveland has The Eastside and The Westside, and the twain don’t meet. These are clusters of many suburbs that are too many to name. The actual city of Cleveland is geographically tight, and the ‘inner-ring’ suburbs are popular with people looking for a bustling, urban lifestyle and left-leaning politics. The Westside features Lakewood (lake shoreline, high LGBTQ quotient, solid public transportation, and tons of millennials). Ohio City (young professionals, juice bars, and yoga) and Tremaine. The Eastside features Cleveland Heights, Coventry, University Circle, and Shaker Heights, which are pretty good for families.

Downtown underwent a major revitalization many years ago, and living downtown became a thing that was possible. A warehouse district called The Flats was massively developed (now East Bank Flats and West Bank Flats) with world-class entertainment and sports, the requisite loft-style, genuine artist-in-residence spaces, and luxury apartments (Goldcoast), all of which house the professionals, the painters, and the partiers. Oh, and there are professional sports like crazy.

The Cleveland metro area is extremely diverse (though segregated ). Little Italy is the real deal, a system of metro parks called The Emerald Necklace is cool, but The Lake Effect is not just a fancy term -- lots o’ snow.

The city offers an urban lifestyle well below the cost of other cities. Millennials have breathed new life into Cleveland, and it shows. The ‘inner ring’ of suburbs is pretty handy. That said, the weather blows. Winters are grey and long, and when the grey sets in, those notoriously friendly people lose their otherwise friendly demeanor.

Cleveland is a major with the population of a mid-size city. If that sounds cool, check out the [LookyLOO Guide to Top Mid-Sized Cities](https://lookyloomove.com/tags/mid-sized-cities).&#x20;

LookyLOO Review of Cleveland

People who live here LOVE IT. It has an amazing theater district with four beautiful and renovated downtown venues. It has a world-class orchestra and art museum, and of course, the Rock and Roll Museum. Two downtown sports arenas and a beautiful lakefront beach. The food scene has exploded in recent years, and the bar/club scene is pulling in youngsters from across the Midwest. If none of that blows your horn, then consider quiet, posh suburban neighborhoods for relaxing with your plutocrat friends.

Check out the [**calendar of events**](https://clevelandtraveler.com/cleveland-calendar/) if you want a summary of all the concerts, theater, and more throughout the year.

We highly recommend visiting Cleveland and staying in the community in a [VRBO](https://vrbo.com/affiliate/p4JS4ZC) rather than a hotel to get a feel for living among the locals. You can also receive discounted travel fares via our [partnership with Expedia](https://expedia.com/affiliate/9NZ8LBQ).

Lifestyle in Cleveland

Cleveland is well-known for its historic manufacturing base, which, like all of the Midwest, has suffered in the last several decades. What is less well-known is how massive the world-class medical community is here, with [Cleveland Clinic](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/) consistently rated among the top one or two hospitals in the United States.  More recent growth in tech, banking, financial services, and healthcare has improved the working conditions well beyond its Rust Belt reputation. 

Cleveland has plenty of economic development happening with the [Cleveland Innovation Project](https://www.clevelandfoundation.org/news_items/cleveland-innovation-project/) one among several driving rebirth and growth in the region. The focus of this program comes in three innovation/technology-led areas: 

-Smart Manufacturing: Leverage position as one of the largest and most diverse manufacturing hubs in the country to lead the innovation, application, and scaling of industrial digital technologies.

-Health Innovation: Develop the technologies and service models for delivering excellent remote and community health care, reducing health disparities, and promoting wellness. Become a global center for pathogens and infectious disease research and development as well as the manufacturing of new diagnostics and medicines.

-Water Technologies: Be a leading center for next-generation solutions – including controls, treatments, data, and analytics – for a water-stressed world.

Worklife in Cleveland

[Cleveland Municipal School District](https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org/) (CMSD) receives a ["C" grade on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/cleveland-municipal-school-district-oh/).

The CMSD admittance policy follows an open enrollment structure with various school choice options, including specialty and magnet programs. Parents and students can apply to schools across the district, but some schools have specific entrance requirements, especially for magnet programs focusing on areas like STEM or arts.

The highest-performing schools in CMSD include:

-[Cleveland School of Science and Medicine](https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org/cssm) is the highest-rated public high school in the Cleveland area. It receives an "A-" on niche.com with "A's" for Academics, Teachers, and Administration. CCSM is a public magnet that focuses on education studies in STEM subjects. 

-[Bard Early College Cleveland](https://bhsec.bard.edu/cleveland/) is the #2 ranked public school in the area, receiving a [**"B+" on niche.com**](https://www.niche.com/k12/bard-early-college-cleveland-cleveland-oh/). The school receives "A's" for Academics, Teachers, College Prep, and Administration. Bard admits students for 6-12 grades, and many students are dual enrolled, earning college credits while completing high school. 



Schools in Cleveland

Cleveland is still in a years-long effort to reinvent itself and it has attracted lots of advanced jobs in BioTech, IT and advanced manufacturing that pay well while the cost of living and home prices are a bargain.

If you want a great city, in comeback mode, that offers all of it at lower costs than other majors Cleveland should be on your shortlist. Check out the [LookyLOO Guide to Cities with a Reasonable Cost of Living](https://lookyloomove.com/tags/reasonable-cost-of-living) for other options.&#x20;

They really want you to.

Why You Should Move Here Now?

Anonymous

2 yrs ago

🦉🦉🦉🦉

It is a great city. Best playhouse district outside of NYC, 4 beautiful renovated theaters with excellent entertainment. World-renowned orchestra, art museum, and art and culture. Two big stadiums with good sports teams. The emerald necklace, with miles and miles of beautiful trails, and lots of beautiful green space. The lake front, beautiful beach, and brand new areas. The downtown area is clean and safe. Beautiful to walk through at night. Wonderful Park system. Every kind of trendy restaurant you can think of, and food markets. And of course, the Rock and Roll Museum and the Football Hall of Fame. Fantastic medical community with world-famous hospitals. Good suburbs and affordable housing. Well, the list goes on and on, but that's a sample of what's going on in Cleveland.

For more about Cleveland from locals, check out [The Reviews](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/cleveland/reviews).&#x20;

It Rocks?

Reviews of Cleveland from Locals

**The Good, the Bad and the Ugly**

Cleveland has The Eastside and The Westside and the twain really don’t meet. These are clusters of many suburbs that are too many to name. The actual city of Cleveland is geographically tight and the ‘inner-ring’ suburbs are popular with people looking for a bustling, urban lifestyle and left-leaning politics. The Westside features Lakewood (lake shoreline, high LGBTQ quotient, solid public transportation and tons of millenials.) Ohio City (young professionals, juice bars and yoga) and Tremaine. The Eastside features Cleveland Heights, Coventry, University Circle and Shaker Heights all of which are pretty good for families. Downtown underwent a major revitalization many years ago and living downtown became a thing that was possible. A warehouse district called The Flats was massively developed (now East Bank Flats and West Bank Flats) with world class entertainment and sports the requisite loft-style, genuine artist- in-residence spaces and luxury apartments (Goldcoast) all of which house the professionals, the painters and the partiers. Oh and there’s professional sports like crazy. 

The Cleveland metro area is extremely diverse (though segregated -- The Westside is very white and can, in certain places, be downright racist.) Little Italy is the real deal, a system of metro parks called The Emerald Necklace is cool but The Lake Effect is not just a fancy term -- lots o’ snow.

**The Best Thing About Cleveland?**

An urban lifestyle is available well below the cost of other cities. Millennials have breathed new life into Cleveland and it shows. The ‘inner-ring’ of suburbs is pretty handy.

**The Worst Thing About Cleveland?** 

The weather really blows. Winters are grey and long and when the grey weather sets in, those notoriously friendly people lose their otherwise friendly demeanor. 

**How You Living?** 

A smorgasbord of options. Old houses, new luxury apartments, ranch houses, lofts. There are so many different living situations and types of communities. If you choose carefully, you could have the best of all worlds. 

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

They really want you to. Cleveland is still in a years-long effort to reinvent itself and it has attracted lots of advanced jobs in BioTech, IT and advanced manufacturing that pay well while the cost of living and home prices are a bargain. 


The Flats is where young professionals should start their search. Views of the river, tons of apartment complexes and insane options for nightlife make this the center of the planet, Cleveland-wise, for an awesome walkable lifestyle. Another interesting option is Detroit Shoreway. Two miles west of downtown on a bluff overlooking Lake Erie, it’s one of the cooler new spots for young professionals. A short walk to Edgewater Park and Lake Erie, the neighborhood is filled with brand new apartment and condo options and plenty of interesting restaurants, microbreweries and views of the Lake. 
- The Flats 
- Detroit Shoreway
- University Circle


Young Professionals

The Flats

University Circle is an amazing area, once named one of the prettiest neighborhoods in America, it is filled with Young Professionals, artists, professors and grad students. The Cleveland Museum of Art is here along with smaller gallery and art studios. It’s also filled with a mix of apartment, condo and single-family home options if that’s what you’re looking for. It has an active social scene but is a bit less nutty than the Flats for those who are ready to get a break or who never crave that scene. 
- University Circle
- Lakewood
- Ohio City/Tremont
- Kamm’s Corners


DINKs/SINKs

University Circle

Cleveland hasn’t had a true city-center neighborhood for LGBTQ+ community like some other major cities, but the west side from W 25th to Lakewood is the most concentrated area. 

That’s changing with the buildout of Studio West, a 100,000 square foot development on the border of Lakewood and Cleveland. The development includes a massive warehouse with gym, sports leagues and a home for the Stonewall Sports community. It will also include a mixed-use building for LGBT youth, seniors and students as well as a residency for visiting drag performers. Finally a 55,000-square-foot entertainment complex will host six different entertainment spaces - live music, drag shows theater and more, the building will also include retail, a podcasting studio, and a co-working space. 
- West Side
- Studio West


LGBTQ+

West Side

Lakewood feels like it is part of Cleveland but it’s actually a separate city that borders the west side of the city along Lake Erie. It’s filled with families but also has the energy of an arts district with a great restaurant and bar scene when you feel like going out. It has Edgwater Park for recreation, the lake, and great homes, yards and public schools. Kamm’s Corner is another active neighborhood choice for families in Cleveland. Two golf courses, and tons of outdoor recreation make it a healthy choice but is has has a great Farmers Market and is host to The Hooley, an annual block party with live music, tasty treats and plenty of entertainment for all ages. 
- Lakewood
- Kamm’s Corner
- Tremont
- Solon


Families

Lakewood

Cleveland

**Moving To Cleveland! What is it like?**

You pretty much picked one of the best cities in America for the medical field. Col is very affordable, and traffic is either manageable or light depending on past experiences. I don't know what you hobbies are, but you can find stuff to do. Hiking is amazing in the area, we have a world renowned orchestra, and amazing museums. The thing with cleveland though is, you may need to travel for the more niche hobbies. If you want it, we probably have it, but it may be a 30 min drive to the other side of the city.

I used to date a girl from Michigan and she did struggle here. People like to make Michigan jokes. Most people mean it in good fun and hope you fire back. She took it seriously and definitely struggled because she felt attacked a lot. She also said she got the feeling people in Cleveland are fake nice. I think people here are genuinely nice, but that was her perception, most likely developed due to differences in cleveland and Michigan.

Cleveland is definitely liberal. Suburbs are a mix (and you will find yourself visiting some suburbs just because of how the city is).

I won't address anything regarding race as I'm not equipped to do so.

**Moving To Cleveland! What is it like?**

In general, it’s a lot like any other non-mega or unique city outside of NYC, LA, Seattle, Denver, Miami, Austin, Boston, etc. People say, “good food and craft beer”, but I think we can do better.

My slightly more specific perspective is:

Midwesterners are honest in a usually friendly way.

-Cleveland IS a sizable city with an incredibly large metropolitan population that rolls “immediately” into other major cities like Akron. This is significant in that you’ve got a lot more people and resources within easy driving to support restaurants/venues as opposed to some places that have steep population fall offs at city limits. Lots of positives to read into with that

-it’s on Lake Erie, perch fishing is big, visit Put-In-Bay or Kelly’s island, go sailing

-Cedar Point is really something else if you’ve never been. Other places DO NOT compare.

-A short drive to Chicago and less than a days drive from several other major cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, or Pittsburgh (or NY!)

-low cost of living means traveling on a doctors salary gets you further than other places

-Similar to just saying Museums, the Cleveland Zoo and Science Center

-Some really great movie theaters that’ll get special releases others won’t

-I know I ragged on it before but there’s great restaurants in and around Cleveland. And an insane amount of them.

-Music scene is VERY strong

-people justifiably complain about winter but it gets wonderfully picturesque without the devastation seen in other cities.

-like others have said, three major sports teams

**Moving To Cleveland! What is it like?**

Hey I have some insight! I am also a professional Black female mid 20s. Moved here from another city that had more diversity and culture...it was an adjustment tbh.

Cost of living - Most space for lowest price is in suburbs, downside they're very conservative, very white, my experience not friendly. Stay away from Brunswick, Medina, North Olmsted, Strongsville, Westlake,Avon areas. Liberal spots good for you(ranked most expensive to least) are Van Aken, Lakewood, Woodmere(aka black& boujee, fun fact wealthiest blacks live in this area),University Circle/Cleveland Heights(closest to cleveland clinic),Ohio City, Shaker Heights, Maple Heights,Old Brooklyn, East Cleveland - STAY AWAY very ghetto

(Pre COVID) The closer to downtown and the lake, the more fun you'll have. If you're ballin honestly check out apartments in the Flats. Puts you right in the middle of all the night life/bar scene. If you want more artsy type fun, spoken word, poetry nights, painting...etc you'll have to travel to East side on occasion since that's where young black professional groups like to host events. The central for black owned businesses tht host those events are the University Circle/Cleveland Heights area.

Don't be like me, make sure to stay closer to the city, I now have to drive at least 45mins for a decent hairdresser and tasteful food. I hope this helps you. I've been here 5 yrs and I work in finance.

**What is it like to live in Cleveland, OH?**

It is a great city. Best playhouse district outside of NYC, 4 beautiful renovated theaters with excellent entertainment. World renowned orchestra, art museum , art and culture. Two big stadiums with good sports teams. The emerald necklace, with miles and miles of beautiful trails, lots of beautiful green space. The lake front, beautiful beach and brand new areas. The downtown area is clean and safe. Beautiful to walk through at night. Wonderful Park system. Every kind of trendy restaurant you can think of and food markets. And of course the Rock and roll museum and the Football Hall of Fame. Fantastic medical community with world famous hospitals. Good suburbs and affordable housing.Well the list goes on and on but that is a sample of what is in Cleveland.

**Is Cleveland a rundown town?
Where are the nice places in Cleveland to live?
Is it true that Cleveland is improving?**
 


The Cleve

California

Michigan

Minnesota

New Jersey

New York

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

Colorado’s appeal is multilayered. Of course, there are the Rockies—snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and Instagrammable vistas—but beyond the obvious, the state reveals itself in its micro-regions and quirks.

Denver has grown into a full-fledged metro, attracting industries from aerospace to fintech. Neighborhoods like RiNo and Cap Hill pulse with murals, independent bookstores, and some of the best third-wave coffee west of the Mississippi. Yet, 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Golden, a once-sleepy brewery town now thriving with young families, hikers, and mountain bikers—all while still housing Coors’ giant facility.

Boulder, perched between rugged wilderness and intellectual ambition, is equal parts Patagonia fleece and startup pitch decks. It’s home to Naropa University (the country’s only accredited Buddhist-inspired school) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, reflecting the state’s unique mix of spiritual curiosity and scientific rigor.

To the north, Fort Collins flies a little under the radar but boasts Colorado State University, a jumping historic downtown, and enough breweries to rival cities twice its size. Meanwhile, Colorado Springs feels like a different state altogether—home to multiple military installations, it leans more conservative but surprises visitors with epic natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods and the quirky artist enclave Manitou Springs, where mineral springs bubble out of old-timey fountains.

Then there are the mountain towns that get less attention than Aspen or Vail:

- Salida: An artsy river town known for whitewater festivals and a historic downtown dotted with galleries.
- Paonia: Tucked on the Western Slope, it’s where organic farmers, artists, and winemakers coexist—a quieter, greener slice of Colorado.
- Crested Butte: A former mining town turned "wildflower capital of Colorado," still fiercely local despite its world-class skiing.
- Leadville: The highest-elevation incorporated city in the U.S., with Wild West vibes, antique shops, and a reputation for producing ultra-endurance athletes.

- Even Pueblo, long dismissed as a steel town, is experiencing a mini-renaissance—check out its green chile scene, which locals claim beats New Mexico’s any day.


**Lifestyle**

Colorado is all about the blend: high-intensity outdoor pursuits and laid-back social life. People measure days by powder totals or trail mileage, but they’re equally serious about craft beer, local music, and farm-to-table brunch.

There’s a statewide obsession with gear—ski racks are practically standard issue—and the unspoken dress code skews toward Patagonia puffer jackets, trail runners, and trucker hats. Even at upscale restaurants, you’ll find Gore-Tex mingling with linen.
Summer weekends revolve around farmers' markets, mountain festivals (like Telluride Bluegrass), and patio culture, where people sip IPAs while their dogs lounge nearby. Yes, 
Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country—don’t be surprised to see pups on brewery patios, hiking trails, and even paddleboards.

The weed industry is fully mainstream here—legal since 2012, dispensaries now sit next to yoga studios, and CBD drinks are common on menus. Despite the outdoor glamour, winters can drag, especially along the Front Range, where weeks of “brown season” (dry, gray winter days) test your patience if you’re not skiing every weekend.


**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Outdoor Diehards: Skiers, mountain bikers, climbers, and trail runners all build their lives around nature’s calendar.

- Remote Workers: Many are now settling in places like Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, or Ouray for mountain views and coworking spaces that offer reliable fiber internet.

- Young Professionals: Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins attract college graduates seeking startup jobs in tech and a social scene that is outdoorsy and active.

- Families: Suburban areas such as Louisville, Superior, and Castle Rock provide excellent schools, greenbelts, and proximity to both the city and the mountains.

- Military & Veterans: Particularly in Colorado Springs, where military bases and VA services have a significant presence.

- Artists, Creatives, and Off-Gridders: These individuals are moving to smaller towns like Paonia, Crestone (known for its spiritual retreats), and Trinidad, where former mining towns are being transformed into vibrant art communities.

**Worklife** 

**Major Industries:**

- Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and dozens of military installations fuel this sector.

- Tech & Startups: Boulder leads, but Denver is fast catching up with expansions from Google, Amazon, and a strong venture capital scene.

- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Anchored by the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and countless health-tech startups.

- Outdoor Rec & Tourism: A massive industry—from ski resorts to bike gear startups like Yeti Cycles.

- Renewable Energy & Green Tech: Solar farms, wind energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure are booming, especially east of Denver.

- Craft Beer & Cannabis: Both industries are major employers and cultural forces. Denver’s Great American Beer Festival draws thousands annually.

The work culture here is serious about productivity but just as serious about play. Flex hours are common—so is the “Friday early out” to chase powder or head to the hills. People here don’t brag about work hours—they brag about the number of 14ers climbed.

**Why Move Here Now?**

Colorado’s mix of economic opportunity and lifestyle remains hard to beat, but the secret’s long been out. Housing costs—especially in Denver, Boulder, and mountain towns—are steep. Still, the “live where you vacation” dream is possible, especially if you’re strategic about location.

Remote work has made previously overlooked places—think Montrose, Rifle, or Florence—more appealing. These towns offer affordability, mountain access, and emerging arts scenes without the crowds or costs of Summit County.
Meanwhile, climate-conscious infrastructure investments and Colorado’s renewable energy push are attracting a new wave of green tech talent. If you’re looking for a place where your weekends feel like a vacation, your weekdays pay the bills, and your backyard is the view—Colorado still delivers.

Just be ready for the quirks: expect your weather app to lie, brace for spring hailstorms, and know that people here take their green chile—and their Broncos—very seriously.

Colorado

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Virginia offers a little bit of everything—beaches, busy cities, historic towns, mountain views, and adventures for the outdoorsy types.  Families can find charming colonial neighborhoods to settle in or a tech-driven suburb, and young professionals (or families) will find cities known for culture and lifestyle (tons of breweries) —and none of it feels out of place.

Northern Virginia cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax get a lot of attention for their young professional scene, government jobs (shaky right now but still), and shiny high-rises. But head west, and things shift—Charlottesville, Richmond, and Roanoke are growing fast, thanks to lower housing costs, beautiful scenery, and thriving food and arts communities.
And yes, Virginia’s got beaches. Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still keeping you within driving distance of larger cities.
Lifestyle 

Virginia balances history and modern life better than most. There are amazing historic landmarks and battlefield tours, but it’s also a growing tech hub, home to a solid craft beer scene, and packed with outdoor activities—from hiking in the Shenandoah Mountains to kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay.

Public schools, especially in Northern Virginia, are notably strong, with Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ)  in Alexandria frequently rated the #1 public high school in the country. You get four distinct seasons, plenty of small-town festivals, and easy access to both mountains and beaches. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.


**Who’s Moving to Virginia?**

- Families: Especially to Northern Virginia and Richmond suburbs for the schools, safety, and space.

- Young professionals: Drawn to government (prepare for this to change), tech, and consulting jobs in DC-adjacent areas like Arlington and Alexandria.

- Retirees and second-home buyers: Looking for less expensive mountain views or coastal living.

- Military families: With large bases in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Quantico.


**Worklife**

Virginia has a strong job market with several major industries driving growth:

- Government and defense: Big in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads although federal jobs are disappearing. 

- Tech and data centers: Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and Loudoun County’s “Data Center Alley”

- Healthcare and education: UVA, VCU, and major hospital networks

- Tourism, shipping, and military: Especially along the coast

The state consistently ranks as one of the best for business. Salaries are strong, especially near DC, though the cost of living is higher there too. Farther south or west, your money goes a lot further.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Virginia is hitting a good stride—a strong economy, a cultural boost in mid-sized cities, and more opportunities popping up beyond the DC suburbs. If you want East Coast energy without New York or Boston prices, Virginia’s a great option.
There’s a lot to like: solid job prospects, a wide range of places to live, and easy access to nature. Remote workers are starting to notice cities like Charlottesville and Richmond for their charm and affordability. And if you’re in tech, Amazon’s expansion means even more jobs on the horizon.

Bottom Line: Move for the jobs, stay for the mountain views, farmers markets, and the fact that you can hike on Saturday and hit the beach on Sunday. Virginia’s got space for you


Virginia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, driven by a combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and a more reasonable cost of living than many large metro areas on the East Coast. For people looking to bail on expensive cities like New York, Boston, or D.C., North Carolina’s growing mid-sized cities hit a sweet spot—offering urban energy without the overwhelming cost or scale.

Charlotte and Raleigh remain the fastest-growing hubs, but what’s fueling the state’s appeal are cities like Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville. These places have seen significant investment in arts, culture, and local businesses, creating vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods while maintaining accessibility and affordability. Wilmington, with its historic riverfront and proximity to beaches, adds a coastal option with similar momentum.

North Carolina offers a blend of lifestyles—from dense city cores to suburban communities and small mountain or coastal towns—all within a state that delivers four distinct seasons and easy access to both the Atlantic and the Appalachians.

**Lifestyle** 

Living in North Carolina means having access to almost every kind of landscape and lifestyle you can imagine. The mountains of western North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge and Smokies, draw hikers, climbers, and people looking for small-town life with incredible scenery. Asheville anchors the region with a nationally recognized food scene, music venues, craft breweries, and a progressive arts community—all surrounded by nature.
Along the coast, places like Wilmington, New Bern, and the Outer Banks offer a completely different pace of life—historic charm, beach towns, and maritime culture.

In between, North Carolina’s mid-sized cities have grown into dynamic cultural hubs. Durham, once defined by tobacco warehouses, is now a food, music, and startup center, balancing grit and growth. Greensboro and Winston-Salem have embraced their history while building arts districts, indie music venues, and foodie scenes that attract newcomers looking for quality of life without the price tag of bigger cities.
Outdoor recreation is baked into the lifestyle—weekends are often spent hiking, kayaking, hitting the coast, or exploring dozens of state parks. Meanwhile, urban centers keep adding restaurants, music festivals, museums, and farmers markets that make daily life feel rich and varied.

Housing costs have risen, particularly in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, but remain notably more reasonable compared to cities like D.C., New York, or Boston. Mid-sized cities and suburbs still offer affordable homeownership options, which continues to draw families, young professionals, and retirees.


**Who’s Moving to North Carolina?**

Young professionals and remote workers: The combination of job opportunities and lifestyle has put places like Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte on the map. Increasingly, mid-sized cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville are drawing remote workers who want cultural amenities without the high price tag.

- Families: Good schools, growing suburbs, and attainable home prices make North Carolina a top choice for families leaving higher-cost states. Suburban areas around Raleigh and Charlotte, like Cary or Huntersville, are growing fast.

- Retirees: North Carolina is a retirement destination—particularly western towns like Asheville, Hendersonville, and Boone, or coastal towns like New Bern and Southport, where people are drawn to the mild climate and slower pace of life.

- Tech, biotech, and finance workers: Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle remains a major driver of growth, along with Charlotte’s powerhouse banking sector. Mid-sized cities are seeing a ripple effect as people seek affordability near these job centers.


**Worklife** 

North Carolina’s economy is diverse, which has helped it stay resilient and attractive to new residents:

- Tech, biotech, and healthcare: The Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is home to major universities, research parks, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. This area competes nationally for talent.

- Finance and banking: Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the U.S., home to Bank of America and major offices for Wells Fargo, Truist, and others.

- Education: With strong public universities and private colleges, education remains a huge employer, feeding into the region’s research and innovation economy.

- Tourism, arts, and service industries: The mountains and coast pull in millions of visitors each year, supporting a growing tourism economy that fuels restaurants, shops, and creative industries in cities and small towns alike.

- Remote work is also changing the landscape, as people relocate from expensive markets to cities like Asheville or Wilmington, seeking a better work-life balance without sacrificing culture or community.


**Why Move Here Now?**

North Carolina is in that rare window of growth where the state feels exciting but still livable. While housing costs are rising, they remain manageable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. Newcomers are often surprised at how much house—or quality of life—they can afford here.

The job market is strong, especially in tech, biotech, finance, and education, and there’s momentum in the arts, food, and cultural scenes, particularly in mid-sized cities that still feel accessible.

If you’re looking for a place that offers career opportunities, space to explore, and a more affordable cost of living—all without sacrificing culture—North Carolina’s cities, especially its rising mid-sized ones, are worth a serious look.


North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Maryland might be one of the smallest states by land area, but it feels expansive in the variety of places, landscapes, and cultures you’ll find here. Locals sometimes call it “America in Miniature”—and it fits. Within a few hours, you can go from the crab houses and maritime history of the Eastern Shore to the rolling farmland and horse country of Howard and Carroll counties, then up into the Appalachian foothills in Western Maryland.

Baltimore—gritty, beautiful, and still deeply local—anchors the state with its historic brick row houses, growing arts scene, and a complicated but evolving identity. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the indie shops and music venues in Hampden. Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland draw researchers, students, and healthcare workers, while the Port of Baltimore keeps the city tied to global trade.

The DC suburbs—places like Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and College Park—are among the most diverse in the country. They’re fast-paced, career-driven, and home to major employers in tech, healthcare, defense, and international policy. Montgomery County consistently ranks high for public school systems, while Prince George’s County—once overlooked—is booming with development and homeownership among Black professionals.

Then there’s the Chesapeake Bay—arguably Maryland’s emotional center. Fishing villages, waterfront towns, and a deep-rooted culture of crabbing and boating shape life here. In places like St. Michaels or Solomons, watermen traditions meet weekenders from DC.


**Lifestyle** 

Maryland is a state of contrasts:

- Outdoors: Summers bring locals out for blue crab feasts, sailing regattas, and Eastern Shore beaches like Ocean City or Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam. Hikers find solace in the Catoctin Mountains or the Maryland stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, leaf-peeping in western Maryland rivals New England.

- Suburban Professional: Many Marylanders are commuters, with highways like I-270 and the Capital Beltway packed every weekday. Work-life here often revolves around careers in government contracting, federal agencies, or research labs.

- Cultural: Baltimore punches above its weight in music, art, and food. It's home to quirky traditions like the annual HonFest, while the nearby suburbs offer concert venues, museums, and some of the country's best public libraries.

- Education-Focused: With several nationally ranked school districts, plus colleges like UMD College Park, Loyola, and St. John’s in Annapolis, education drives many families’ choices.

The cost of living is high in the DC metro area—Montgomery County and Howard County are expensive but offer great schools and amenities. Meanwhile, Baltimore City and parts of the Eastern Shore remain relatively affordable, though income disparities can be stark.


**Who’s Moving to Maryland?**

- Government and Defense Professionals: With NSA, NIH, and countless government contractors, Maryland is a hub for federal careers.

- Healthcare and Biotech Workers: The state’s economy is built around giants like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System, and a growing biotech corridor around Gaithersburg and Rockville.

- Families: Strong school systems, safe suburbs, and access to both urban and rural life make it a prime target for families.

- Nature and Water Lovers: The Bay, mountains, and access to the Atlantic draw people who don’t want to choose between city life and nature.


**Worklife**

Maryland boasts some of the highest median incomes in the country, but it comes with a cost. Key industries include:

- Government, Defense, and Cybersecurity (Fort Meade, NSA, countless Beltway contractors)

- Healthcare and Life Sciences (Johns Hopkins, NIH, biotech firms in the I-270 corridor)

- Port and Shipping (Baltimore’s port is one of the busiest on the East Coast)

- Education (Universities, research centers, and public school systems)

Maryland’s job market tends to be resilient especially near D.C.—especially in recession-proof industries like healthcare, science, and in prior administrations, federal government work. High wages can offset higher living costs, particularly in areas like Montgomery County.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Baltimore is changing -- neighborhood revitalization, a growing arts scene, and affordable historic homes make it a city to invest in. The DMV’s tech and biotech boom means Maryland’s share of the tech and life sciences boom is growing fast, especially in Montgomery County and the suburbs along I-270.

Waterfront and small-town charm aplenty, with coastal towns offering an escape that feels worlds away from DC but still within reach for weekends or remote work. Finally, access without total commitment: Maryland lets you plug into DC’s energy, Baltimore’s grit, or nature’s calm—all without fully committing to just one lifestyle.


Maryland

Washington is not what most people around the country think if their view is based solely on the Emerald City. You’ve got Seattle, yes — the tech hub with glassy towers, expensive lattes, and endless cranes reshaping the skyline. But Washington’s story is bigger and weirder than that.

Head east and you hit the Cascades, where towns like Leavenworth lean hard into their Bavarian cosplay — full-on Alpine architecture and Christmas markets, even in summer. Cross those mountains and the state turns dry, golden, and wide open — apple orchards, hops fields, and wine country roll through the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. It’s a different state over there, one that cares more about rodeos and crop yields than whatever Seattle’s latest zoning fight is about.

There’s also the pocket-sized, artsy cities people don’t talk about enough — Bellingham, tucked up near the Canadian border with its crunchy, outdoorsy vibe and a local ski hill just 30 minutes up the road; Olympia, the capital, where the punk music scene still has a pulse and the farmers market is the real social center; and Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town known for wooden boat festivals and a whole lot of ghost stories.

What keeps people here is the geography — Puget Sound, the Olympics, Mount Rainier looming massive. There’s a certain stubborn pride about how many people own a kayak and know how to dig their clams. You don’t have to go far to find someone who will try to convince you their corner of Washington is the best — whether that’s a foggy coastal town, a moss-draped mountain pass, or a sunny plateau east of the mountains. And honestly, they’re all kind of right.



**Lifestyle** 

Living here means you learn to live with the weather — or love it. Western Washington’s gray season lasts months, but the long, golden summer days make up for it. The east side flips the script — hot, dry summers and winters that mean snow.

People are big on the outdoors, but not in a performative way. It's less Instagram hiking and more “this is just what we do.” Mountain biking in the Cascades, skiing at Stevens Pass, trail running in the Issaquah Alps, or mushroom hunting when the rains come — the connection to nature runs deep.

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here — it’s baked in. You’ll see people line up to return compost buckets at the farmers market or debate which salmon run needs protecting. There’s a hyper-local food scene, from oyster farms like Hama Hama to foraged nettles making their way into restaurant menus.

Housing is a mixed bag. Seattle and the Eastside (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland) are expensive, with median home prices well above $900k. But smaller cities like Spokane or the Tri-Cities offer more space and sunshine without completely unplugging you from the economy.



**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Tech folks chasing jobs at Amazon, Microsoft, and the sprawl of startups. The Eastside suburbs — Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish — are full of transplants figuring out the PNW way.

- Families looking for good schools, parks, and the rare suburban neighborhood where you can still walk to a coffee shop (Issaquah and North Bend, looking at you).

- Outdoor types — climbers, paddlers, skiers — folks who want a job and mountains in their backyard. Bellingham and Wenatchee both punch above their weight for this crowd.

- Healthcare and education workers — UW, WSU, major hospital systems, and growing biotech hubs keep the state anchored beyond tech.

- And increasingly, people just looking for a lifestyle shift — artists, remote workers, folks burned out on California or Texas sprawl — are finding their way here.



**Worklife**

The job market stays solid, especially if you’re in:

- Tech: Seattle’s core, Bellevue’s new skyscrapers, and a growing remote scene

- Aerospace: Boeing’s still big, even if quieter than it once was

- Healthcare: especially in Seattle and Spokane

- Agriculture: apples, cherries, hops, and wine rule Eastern Washington

- Shipping and trade: major ports in Seattle and Tacoma keep global goods moving

The interesting thing is how the economy balances — world-class tech and scrappy farming towns coexist, sometimes uneasily, but it works.



**Why Move Here Now?**

Washington’s still growing, but in ways that give you choices. Yes, Seattle’s pricey, but places like Spokane, Bellingham, and even Bremerton are growing fast without feeling like polished suburbs yet. The access to nature is unbeatable, but what might surprise people is how distinct each region feels.
You could live where you’re skiing before work, or where you’re sipping wine on your porch at sunset. You could be downtown for an Amazon meeting or out in the San Juans watching orcas. Washington has range — that’s the real sell.


City Size

Region

City Type

Cleveland, Ohio

The Cleve

Look Score: 84