Thinking about moving to Asheville (Raleigh: real estate, high crime, house)

[Family oriented]

Hello, I hope all is well. I would like to know if Asheville is a family oriented town? Not the "everyone knows everyone" type of thing but I was told it was a party city, but I have also heard it was nice, and pleasant a good place to raise children. What about diversity? Does it have a high crime rate? Thanks in advance for all of your input.

[YvetteJ]

I have heard wonderful things about Asheville NC. I am actually thinking of moving myself. I used to live in Raleigh and now live in Staunton, Va.YUCK, but I am also a parent, liberal and want to know about diversity in Asheville as I have a bi-racial son. If you hear anything, please let me know.

[lovesMountains]

Both of you should use the "search" feature above. Type in Asheville and you will get loads of information. The subject of Asheville's more liberal side, schools, expensive housing and lack of jobs has been well covered previously

[nanannie]

Beautiful "cool"city,wonderful mountains to hike,lovely views,shops ,however,so so schools,and NO new job industry(.unless you are retired and want to give golf lessons).You will not get much bang for the buck in housing,I was bummed at what our house dollar bought within the city,but I LOVE the open minded attitude in MOST parts of this city,the arts,the spiritual community,,,wish we could move there,,,but it is not really a place to make a living for most folks

[Family oriented]

Originally Posted by nanannie

Beautiful "cool"city,wonderful mountains to hike,lovely views,shops ,however,so so schools,and NO new job industry(.unless you are retired and want to give golf lessons).You will not get much bang for the buck in housing,I was bummed at what our house dollar bought within the city,but I LOVE the open minded attitude in MOST parts of this city,the arts,the spiritual community,,,wish we could move there,,,but it is not really a place to make a living for most folks

Where do you live?

[Family oriented]

Originally Posted by Famliy oriented

Where do you live?

I'm trying to decide btw Iowa West Des Moines and Asheville, NC. Ever been to Iowa?

[spunky1]

Originally Posted by YvetteJ

I have heard wonderful things about Asheville NC. I am actually thinking of moving myself. I used to live in Raleigh and now live in Staunton, Va.YUCK, but I am also a parent, liberal and want to know about diversity in Asheville as I have a bi-racial son. If you hear anything, please let me know.

Hi, read your post and was just wondering your take on Staunton. Why the Yuck? I have only visited the area but it looks quaint and the area is beautiful w/ alot of outdoor opportunities. . Any insight? Thanks.

[mm_mary73]

Originally Posted by YvetteJ

I have heard wonderful things about Asheville NC. I am actually thinking of moving myself. I used to live in Raleigh and now live in Staunton, Va.YUCK, but I am also a parent, liberal and want to know about diversity in Asheville as I have a bi-racial son. If you hear anything, please let me know.

Very similiar areas.

[nanannie]

Originally Posted by Famliy oriented

I'm trying to decide btw Iowa West Des Moines and Asheville, NC. Ever been to Iowa?

I now live in Illinois with one foot out the door Yes,I have been to Iowa,Des Moines is nice,but in my opinion,I would sure choose Asheville over Des Moines.Just an opinion,but if you have the option of Asheville,go for it,,the small charming city,nicer weather,glorious mountains,liberal,hip educated atmosphere(Not that Iowa isnt of course,just different)and just all around lovely..I also love having lakes and an ocean within an easy trip..If you can do it and have a job,I sure would pick Asheville,,,IMHO

[larycham]

Originally Posted by YvetteJ

I have heard wonderful things about Asheville NC. I am actually thinking of moving myself. I used to live in Raleigh and now live in Staunton, Va.YUCK, but I am also a parent, liberal and want to know about diversity in Asheville as I have a bi-racial son. If you hear anything, please let me know.

We once considered Staunton but are now looking at Asheville also. Have you considered Roanoke? I have heard good things about this town recently, and real estate costs may be a bit lower than Asheville. Maybe Asheville is more diverse?