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I love both of these for different reasons. Very easy places to live.
Culture: Phoenix. Charlotte culture is not really defined like some other metros. It is undeniably Southern, but not unique.
Public School Systems (for those with children): Charlotte
Economy: Charlotte
Food: Phoenix
Cost of living: Phoenix
Crime: Charlotte
Infrastructure/transportation: Phoenix
Urbanity: Neither, but at least Charlotte is trying.
Desirable suburbs: Phoenix
Climate: Charlotte
I would choose Charlotte based on climate and topography. I could not deal with Phoenix heat and desert surroundings for too long.
I love both of these for different reasons. Very easy places to live.
Culture: Phoenix. Charlotte culture is not really defined like some other metros. It is undeniably Southern, but not unique.
Public School Systems (for those with children): Charlotte
Economy: Charlotte
Food: Phoenix
Cost of living: Phoenix
Crime: Charlotte
Infrastructure/transportation: Phoenix
Urbanity: Neither, but at least Charlotte is trying.
Desirable suburbs: Phoenix
Climate: Charlotte
I would choose Charlotte based on climate and topography. I could not deal with Phoenix heat and desert surroundings for too long.
I agree. I think I'm done with Phoenix. I still love AZ, but after 30 years, I think I'm ready for a change. I'm thinking Nashville or the Carolina coast is calling out to me.
Infrastructure/transportation: Does it matter? Need car in both places
If ever you're out in Charlotte, do yourself a favor and ride the light rail. It is surprisingly efficient. You can absolutely live car free quite comfortably in South End.
It has not been mentioned, but demographically the cities are very different with Phoenix having a much larger Hispanic population and Charlotte having a much larger African American population. Similarly, Phoenix has a much larger Catholic presence, where Charlotte has a much larger Baptist/Protestant presence. These demographics won’t also play a role in preference for either Phoenix or Charlotte, as will preference for Western vs Southern culture.
That said, for me the more traditional seasons, greenery, cost of living, and clean, entertaining, and modern and affordable downtown would tip the scale towards Charlotte for me.
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