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I currently live in NJ and do like it here, but of course with 4 children, the cost are overwhelming at times. And of course taxes! We have narrowed it down to the Lake Norman area (because of the proximity to Charlotte and all the great lake activities). Our second thought is Asheville. The VIEWS and town are great. And skiing and hiking in the mountains is a big plus. I would not live in town but maybe Weaverville or Fletcher. Of course the housing is much higher there, and salaries may be lower (so a definite draw back). Which area do you advise to go to. My husband is in the heating and cooling business, so jobs should be available both areas. Our price range is $400 for a newer 4-5 bedroom home, sub-divisions are ok.
I currently live in NJ and do like it here, but of course with 4 children, the cost are overwhelming at times.... Our price range is $400 for a newer 4-5 bedroom home...
Wow, going from being swamped by overwhelming costs to being able to afford a home out if reach of most of us down here...
You mentioned skiing and hiking as things you're looking for, and prefer higher salaries.
-There are slopes within 45 minutes, but Asheville is about the same distance as Charlotte is from the better skiing of northwest NC.
-Hiking locations abound up here.
-I don't think there's much difference in an HVAC specialist's salary between the two cities.
I would choose Asheville because the of the horrendous traffic in the Lake Norman area... but like the perception of "overwhelming costs" differs between NJ and NC, so may the perception of "horrendous traffic."
Well when property taxes triple and health insurance doubles and salary gets about 5% increase in 8 years= you do the math. The only thing we have going for us is that we bought homes that have held their value.
Asheville. I've lived in Charlotte. Wouldn't do that again.
Asheville has a great downtown, eclectic eateries, and lots of things for the whole family. Charlotte is growing faster and probably has more opportunities for employment.
Charlotte is the place to go for employment opportunities right now. Asheville
has a better quality of life with its mountain views, outdoor activities and its proximity to the Smokies. You may also consider looking at Roanoke, VA.
I have relatives that left Roanoke and moved to Charlotte several years ago. They have done very well there money wise but they still miss the lifestyle of the mountains. I guess we should all learn that there is no place perfect. The best part is everything is closeby.
Are there different smaller towns around Roanoke that you would recommend? Schools are important to us and being close to local amenities. Also looking for an area with newer developments, I live in an older house now and I want less headaches.
Are there different smaller towns around Roanoke that you would recommend? Schools are important to us and being close to local amenities. Also looking for an area with newer developments, I live in an older house now and I want less headaches.
Look at Salem(a town of about 25k) and Daleville(Botetourt County). You must come here and check out the region. There are a lot of similarities with Asheville & Knoxville. The mountains really change a place!
Which area do you advise to go to. My husband is in the heating and cooling business, so jobs should be available both areas. Our price range is $400 for a newer 4-5 bedroom home, sub-divisions are ok.
You won't have a problem finding this in Charlotte or the surrounding area.
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Where your husband finds the best job may be the determining factor. Research the employment options thoroughly before you decide on either place.
This is sound advice. Once you get a feel of the job market you can explore that city and it's surrounding towns.
If you feel that both cities have equal opportunities, your best bet is to come and visit each area. Read through each sub-forum. Use the search feature to find posts about things that interest you (schools, amenities etc.). Go with the city that feels right for you.
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Charlotte or Asheville?
