Moving to Charlotte- need advice (Gastonia, Hickory: renting, safe area, college)

[njbeck]

Hello all,

I've been doing research on this forum and other places for the past few weeks with my wife- and we have chosen Charlotte as our place to relocate to. We have both grown up in Arkansas, graduated college here, and started our careers here- with all our friends and family.

We have however decided we need to adventure alittle bit, before we have children. To do that, we decided to move somewhere were we didn't know anyone. Neither of us have lived more than an hour or so from parents, grandparents, siblings, etc.. So this will be a big change.

We are coming to scout neighborhoods and such in about a week and a half. I am also trying to line up potential job oppurtunities/ staffing so that I can shake hands. What I need to know is- what neighborhoods should I scout?

We're definitely renting, either a 1BR or 2BR. The cost of living is similar to Little Rock, but we have no idea what area's we like or to even go look at. We're mid twenties, like the outdoors, shopping, nice restaraunts, walking areas, etc... I'm also looking for security and community.

Here in Arkansas they get the label "poshster" communities. (Posh + hipster)

Thanks for your time and advice!!

P.S. I am in IT if anyone knows of a good job opening

[southbound_295]

Originally Posted by njbeck

Hello all,

I've been doing research on this forum and other places for the past few weeks with my wife- and we have chosen Charlotte as our place to relocate to. We have both grown up in Arkansas, graduated college here, and started our careers here- with all our friends and family.

We have however decided we need to adventure alittle bit, before we have children. To do that, we decided to move somewhere were we didn't know anyone. Neither of us have lived more than an hour or so from parents, grandparents, siblings, etc.. So this will be a big change.

We are coming to scout neighborhoods and such in about a week and a half. I am also trying to line up potential job oppurtunities/ staffing so that I can shake hands. What I need to know is- what neighborhoods should I scout?

We're definitely renting, either a 1BR or 2BR. The cost of living is similar to Little Rock, but we have no idea what area's we like or to even go look at. We're mid twenties, like the outdoors, shopping, nice restaraunts, walking areas, etc... I'm also looking for security and community.

Here in Arkansas they get the label "poshster" communities. (Posh + hipster)

Thanks for your time and advice!!

P.S. I am in IT if anyone knows of a good job opening

Apple is building a server farm in Maiden, NC. It's between Gastonia & Hickory. 3 other companies are currently snooping in Maiden & Kings Mountain. Those decisions are not final. you might want to wait a bit to see what come out of that, as well as when those are going to be up & running.

[chltresident]

If you're into more of a party scene then Plaza Midwood area would be your best choice. Make sure you visit and check out the surroundings because some parts are a little seedy. Other parts are very nice. I also like Dilworth, I run there in the late evenings sometimes and it's a safe area to walk or run. If you need something a little less expensive you may have luck with the area referred to as the Park and Woodlawn area which has a pretty lively nightlife and access to shops, restaurants, etc.

[njbeck]

Originally Posted by chltresident

If you're into more of a party scene then Plaza Midwood area would be your best choice. Make sure you visit and check out the surroundings because some parts are a little seedy. Other parts are very nice. I also like Dilworth, I run there in the late evenings sometimes and it's a safe area to walk or run. If you need something a little less expensive you may have luck with the area referred to as the Park and Woodlawn area which has a pretty lively nightlife and access to shops, restaurants, etc.

Thank you, will def. check out the Park and Woodlawn, and Dilworth. Will need something cheaper since Network Admins here only get in the $40-50k area. I like what you said about being safe at night- but the access to shops and restaurants is nice also.