Moving to Charlotte: University Area vs. NODA, how do you weigh-in? (Nashville: apartments, rentals)

[Nia2]

Hi Family!

After reading all the threads from other members moving to Charlotte, I am excited to report our decision to move from Nashville to your beautiful city @ the end of August.

Everyone gives great opinions and I need your help!

My family- fiancé, son and puppy plan to arrive in Charlotte the end of this month and I still have questions regarding the best locations to rent.

I researched Dilworth, Elizabeth, Uptown, NODA and University.
I narrowed our decision down to the University Area or NoDa. We enjoy central locations- close to Starbucks, gyms, Target and hopefully walking distance to a park. Our price range is $1,200 for a condo or home rental. We will work downtown close to Tryon and can’t figure out the major differences between the two places.
Thanks for your help!

[Hoagie58]

Can't speak for NoDa, but University is a great area! We have all of the amenities you've mentioned, and more. Uptown is an easy drive- expect some traffic, of course, but not earth shattering. If you have specific questions I'd be happy to try to help.

[GastoniaNative]

Well, you are really comparing apples and oranges.

NoDa is pretty urban while UCity is extremely suburban.

[Carolina Blue]

Honestly, for that price range I'd recommend you consider something in Uptown or Southend.

[PeytonC]

For that price they won't be able to find a place big enough for all of them in Uptown. UC is a great family oriented place, convenient to everything, and a short drive to Uptown. NoDa is transforming into an arts district, and has a long way to go to be complete and established. UC would probably be the better choice for your family IMHO unless an urban neighborhood is your thing. Good luck.

[rhcp5150]

I live in University and I would love to move to NODA. Its close to uptown and not as surburban, more bohemian and cool. You can find something in NODA for that price. Not sure about the schools though..

[Carolina Blue]

Originally Posted by PeytonC

For that price they won't be able to find a place big enough for all of them in Uptown...

I don't know about that. I think there would be places in Uptown in their range for what they are looking for. Not sure how many bedrooms they want, but there are several two bedrooms in their range. Not sure about 3, but I'm certain there would be some. The link below might be a good starting point...

Charlotte Uptown Apartments

[chicagocubs]

NoDa is transitional and not really the best place for a family. (in my opinion). You would do much better in University City. Uptown (downtown) might be too urban for the family and puppy; for that price range, you could fairly easily rent a house with a yard. Best of luck with your move!

[spankys bbq]

I'd reccomend University over NoDa if you're thinking family. NoDa is definately not where I would want to raise a child. That is the main reason I want to sell my house now. Not gonna raise a kid around here.

[black_fx_35]

Depends what you are looking for specifically. As another poster indicated, this is comparing apples and oranges. The only thing they have in common, is their proximity to eachother (about 6 miles away). What are the important factors that you are looking for, other than close to Target, Starbucks, ect. Additionally, how old is your child? If we are talking a baby/toddler, NoDa is fine. If your child is 5 or above, you might find University to be a better place. NoDa has a TON of kids who are 1, 2, 3 4 years old, but I am afraid a child older than that might have a difficult time, as its not like there are many kids around to be friends with. Anyhow, perhaps you should list what you like about both NoDa and University and why you have narrowed your search down to these two areas. That will give us a better idea of what is important to you and your family. Good luck!