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New transplant from NYC here. Maybe what I'm looking for doesn't exist here....but I'll ask.
I'm trying to find a place to live in the triangle that is walking/bicycling distance to at least some cafes and green markets. Is there anywhere like that here that caters to independent small business, not franchises, not shopping malls and not strip malls? Is there anywhere around here that is pedestrian friendly? How can you create community and get to know your neighbors when everyone is in their cars?
Where are you? Sounds like you're looking for Carrboro. You've actually given a perfect description of it! There are very few strip malls and chain stores — no big box stores at all. Fabulous farmer's market and local co-op grocery. Tons of excellent cafes and food. Tons of writers, artists, and other creative types. Decent sidewalks and bike lanes. I know several Carrboro-ites who don't own a car. Free buses shared with Chapel Hill.
Wanted to add, I'm sure there are places in Durham and Raleigh that would fill your bill, too, but I'm not as familiar with neighborhoods there. I do have friends who love both towns, though. Personally, I'm not sure Cary is going to be your best bet. Durham, in particular, has a lot going on for the creative set.
Carrboro is the clear winner here, although you should also look at parts of Durham, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough. The Cameron Village area of Raleigh might be worth checking out as well.
I would look to places like Carrboro and the downtown areas of Durham and Raleigh (with an emphasis on the first two). The scene wouln't be like that in NYC but you will find small pockets of it. While the culture in the Triangle is dominated by suburbanites, there is a thriving subculture interested in the things you are also looking for. There are many local area blogs that can help you get a better feel for some of these things. For starters Google "Bull City Rising" and "New Raleigh". They are both a wealth of information and provide links to numerous other local blogs you may be interested in exploring. Good Luck!
In Raleigh, Five Points, Glenwood South fits the bill, but no green market. There is a market downtown once a week, and you are a quick pop to the state farmers market.
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