Sometimes known as The ABQ, Albuquerque is deeply southwestern. Green Chilis are the staff of life here and it's not uncommon to eat them at all three meals in a day. The beautiful New Mexico culture is also deeply woven into the city experience with pueblos inside and outside the city borders. Nestled in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains (Spanish for watermelon due to the color) the surrounding landscape is stunning and those who love the outdoors get to experience this southern extension of the high plains area daily.

The city gets dinged on crime but it's like most larger cities on that account, some neighborhoods get more crime than others, just be smart and you'll be fine. It’s also fairly remote. The ‘International’ in The Albuquerque International Sunport is a fib. There are no international flights out of the ABQ and direct flights to big US cities are limited. The drive to Santa Fe is under an hour, but driving to other cities (Denver, Phoenix, Texas, etc.) is quite a haul. Speaking of driving, the city's sprawl makes a car a necessity.  



New Mexico Lifestyle for Less

LookyLOO Review of Albuquerque

Albuquerque is well known for its polarizing suburban vibes that people either love or despise. If you’ve had unpleasant experiences with suburbia, check out other cities. This family-friendly suburban culture brings with it more zoos and museums than nightlight spots. 

Outdoor recreation is unsurprisingly big in this part of the state due to the beautiful surrounding countryside. Hiking, mountain biking, and even skiing, when the weather permits, are available in the local Sandia Mountains. The Rio Grande River runs through the city center and is popular with kayakers and river hikers. 

Finally, as was mentioned, New Mexico culture is deeply woven into the city with green chilis your new best friend. 

To see what locals do for fun, check out the calendar of [city events](https://www.visitalbuquerque.org/abq365/events/).

We highly recommend visiting Albuquerque and staying in the community in a [VRBO](https://vrbo.com/affiliate/p4JS4ZC) rather than a hotel to get a feel for living among the locals. You can also receive discounted travel fares via our [partnership with Expedia](https://expedia.com/affiliate/9NZ8LBQ).

Lifestyle

While known as a big destination for retirees, people certainly find work in Albuquerque as is demonstrated by its low unemployment numbers. Healthcare and education are big in this part of New Mexico, with Sunbridge Healthcare and The University of New Mexico big employers. An increasing number of startups have also started to relocate to the area recently, taking advantage of the low costs and local vibes. The commercial district running along the old Route 66 has plenty of service jobs. Generally, low costs of living and relatively high wages provide residents a way to make it work. 


Worklife 

[Albuquerque Public Schools](https://www.aps.edu/) is a typical mid-to-larger school district with a wide range of high and lower-performing schools. It comes in at a ["B+" ranking on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/albuquerque-public-schools-nm/) with higher grades for the quality of College Prep, Clubs & Activities, and Diversity. 

There are A-rated schools scattered throughout the city but the greatest concentration sits on the Northeast side of the city, closer to the neighborhoods bordering the Sandia Mountain Wilderness area. If living close to the highest-rated schools matters to you then keep an eye on the neighborhood when scouting homes. 

Some of the highest-performing schools in the entire state are in Albuquerque and include:
-[Nex+Gen Academy](https://nexgen.aps.edu/) a project-based school that is particularly celebrated for the quality of the Teachers and receives an ["A+" on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/nex-plus-gen-academy-albuquerque-nm/).
-[East Mountain High School](https://www.eastmountainhigh.net/) is the [#1 ranked charter school](https://www.niche.com/k12/east-mountain-high-school-sandia-park-nm/) in the entire state and is part of the neighborhoods that border the Sandia Mountain Wilderness area. 



Schools

If a suburban atmosphere with access to a wide range of outdoor activities sounds appealing, Albuquerque should be on your list when considering your next move. Just remember the sunscreen and a car with good mileage.


High Desert Experience

Why You Should Move Here Now?

**douglau5**
Living in Albuquerque
2y ago
✭✭✭✭

I love this city.

It’s big enough that you still have big city amenities like late night eats, an airport, etc.

It’s small enough that traffic congestion isn’t really an issue. Even rush hour isn’t that bad.

Is it perfect? Of course not, but nowhere is.

You can be anywhere in the city and be less than a 20 minute drive to wilderness.

300 days of sunshine and relatively mild weather, yet there is skiing/snowboarding within a short drive (Sandia peak, Santa Fe, Sipapu, Angel fire, Taos, Red River, etc).

We’re rooted in a “live and let live” style of living so everyone is generally cool with each other.

The food is great. Red and green chile on everything!

We’ve got an active local brewing scene if you’re into craft brews.

We’re a 6 hour drive/ 1 hour flight from Denver and Phoenix so big cities aren’t terribly far.

Natural beauty might be the best part.

If you get a chance to go up Sandia peak before you leave, do it. You can drive up the back way or take the tram. Over 10,000 ft at the top. Looking east is grassland; west is ABQ and desert; north and south is mountains.

For more reviews of what living in Albuquerque is like from locals check out: [**The Reviews**](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/albuquerque/reviews)

Just the Right Size

Reviews of Albuquerque from Locals

**The Best Thing About Albuquerque?** The New Mexico way of life at a low cost.

Sometimes known as The ABQ, Albuquerque is deeply southwestern. Green Chilis are the staff of life here. It is not uncommon to eat them at all three meals in one day. The New Mexico culture is also deeply woven into the city experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains (Spanish for watermelon due to the color) there are many pueblos in the state and some right on the Albuquerque border, a great deal of diversity and light traffic surrounded by desert skies. Albuquerque is authentic New Mexico and the cost of living is low. 

**The Worst Thing About Albuquerque?**  Breaking Bad wasn’t kidding. 

Public Schools are low ranked and crime is high across neighborhoods. low education levels, a high unemployment rate, and higher levels of substance abuse in the population. In 2016, Albuquerque is home to a large portion of property crimes reported in New Mexico and violent crime is high as well. It’s also fairly remote. The ‘International’ in The Albuquerque International Sunport is a lie. There are no international flights out of the airport and direct flights to big US cities are limited. The drive to Santa Fe is under an hour but driving to any other cities (Denver, Phoenix, Texas cities etc.) is quite a haul. 

**How You Living?**  Mostly Suburban

Central Avenue (part of the original Rt 66) is the big east/west thoroughfare and runs through downtown and the city is a car worshipping one.  Housing varies from single family ranch style homes built in the 40s, 50s and 60s (including the ever popular mid century modern) to more tony Spanish Colonial homes (Albuquerque Country Club neighborhood) and even homes dating back to the late 1800s (Huning Castle) as well as farm communities (North Valley) But, more urban styles close to downtown (Nob Hill) with easy access to University of New Mexico are a thing. Family Alert: The schools are better and the homes are still fairly affordable in Uptown.

Nearby areas in the metro include Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, Placitas, Corrales, Los Lunas, Belen and Bosque Farms. 

Even though there are 280 days of sun, the city’s elevation is high so there will be snow and cold. In other words, there are seasons.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

There’s a startup and tech community forming, the cost of living is low, the natural  landscape is stunning and it’s covered in parks. 


Most University of New Mexico students live off-campus with plenty of the surrounding neighborhoods offering inexpensive housing. Spruce Park sits right in between the school and downtown so that's pretty perfect for high walks core to classes and downtown nightlife. Nob Hill is another hotspot which also borders the school and downtown. This "triangle" of neighborhoods - Spruce Park, Nob Hill and Downtown, have much of the housing and social life for the students. 

College Kids

Spruce Park / Nob Hill 

Young Professionals generally live Downtown or close by in the Nob Hill neighborhood. This is where the action is with a mix of upscale foodie spots and super-casual noodle bars. This is also where youngsters and students dance, drink - booze and coffee, and enjoy live music and theater. Plenty of apartments, townhomes and condos offer inexpensive housing in new nice buildings. If you want to walk to work (if you're lucky) and walk out at night then put downtown on your short list of places to live.


Young Professionals/Students

Downtown

Albuquerque is silly with good neighborhoods for families. Academy Hills Park is a popular choice in part due to the great park smack dab in the middle of the neighborhood. Playgrounds, soccer fields, and tons of greenery for Fido to run around make it ideal for the whole family. To top it off there's also a beautiful country club and even an Amusement Park. 

Altura is another good option with a great local park, playgrounds, tennis courts and tons of kids running around on weekends. Altura has an extra bonus of having plenty of fun restaurants to feed those hungry kiddos. 
- Academy Hills Park
- Altura
- Bear Canyon
- Heritage East
- Vista Del Mundo



Families

Academy Hills Park 

Albuquerque is a relatively quiet suburban city with inexpensive housing and access to great outdoor spaces for retirees. If you're up for a planned community check out Ventana Ranch. It has all the benefits of a suburban neighborhood but with direct access to the amenities you'd want in a city. The community has nature trails, parks, a community center with a pool and beautiful homes for those looking for organized luxury. 
- Ventana Ranch
- North Valley
- The Foothills

Retirees

Ventana Ranch

Albuquerque

**douglau5**
Living in Albuquerque
2y ago
✭✭✭✭

I love this city.

It’s big enough that you still have big city amenities like late night eats, an airport, etc.

It’s small enough that traffic congestion isn’t really an issue. Even rush hour isn’t that bad.

Is it perfect? Of course not, but nowhere is.

You can be anywhere in the city and be less than a 20 minute drive to wilderness.

300 days of sunshine and relatively mild weather, yet there is skiing/snowboarding within a short drive (Sandia peak, Santa Fe, Sipapu, Angel fire, Taos, Red River, etc).

We’re rooted in a “live and let live” style of living so everyone is generally cool with each other.

The food is great. Red and green chile on everything!

We’ve got an active local brewing scene if you’re into craft brews.

We’re a 6 hour drive/ 1 hour flight from Denver and Phoenix so big cities aren’t terribly far.

Natural beauty might be the best part.

If you get a chance to go up Sandia peak before you leave, do it. You can drive up the back way or take the tram. Over 10,000 ft at the top. Looking east is grassland; west is ABQ and desert; north and south is mountains.

**peculiarpuffins**
Living in Albuquerque
2y ago
✭✭✭


I moved here from the Seattle area. I've really enjoyed it, but I know many people with similar stories who haven't. I think you have to like what Albuquerque has to offer. I found the hiking/adventure spots much more accessible here. In a weird way, I've found a lot of basic city amenities more accessible here too since I'm on a budget. To buy a house in the Seattle area under 400k you really have to be HOURS outside of Seattle, and with the traffic actually getting to Seattle sucks. Here I was able to buy a house for 200k and be in the center of town in 20 minutes.

I love the desert, the sun and the warmth. I love the food and the culture. Albuquerque also feels more "little pond" to me and I have access to opportunities here that I may not have been able to qualify for in a bigger city.

As I said before, most of the other people I know who moved here from other places don't like it. The most common complaints I have heard are about the lack of trees and water. The wind in the spring sucks if you have allergies. Albuquerque is not great for shopping and everything closes early. I haven't been personally bothered by the crime, but it looks like we have a literal serial killer on the loose, so YMMV.

**radiofreenewport**
Living in Albuquerque
2y ago
✭✭✭


Quick answers:

Pros: Natural beauty, access to great hiking and cycling, cool/chill people, excellent breweries, friendly music scene, the NM culture which is different from what I'm used to (white Midwest), and lots of things that we have just enough of to make me happy.

Cons: Crime, though it hasn't affected us yet. The closest most touring bands come is Denver or Phoenix.

Yes -- we gave up a comfortable situation in a big friend network in Ohio to come here a year ago. Love it.

It's not coastal, but I've lived in Chicago. Prefer ABQ.

**Spiritual_Ad5449**
Living in Albuquerque
5mo ago
✭✭✭✭

The sunsets and beautiful views of the mountain still thrill me after almost 28 years here. There’s much to love about living in Albuquerque: generally chill people, art and murals everywhere, diversity, unique culture, good to great weather (keep that part quiet), easy access to outdoor activities right in or just outside the city. I live downtown and one of my favorite things is biking on the paseo del bosque trail along the river. I see fields full of geese and cranes in the winter, and later bask in the golden leaves of the cottonwoods in the fall. It’s an incredible urban amenity all year round.

**5 Pros And Cons of Living In Albuquerque New Mexico - Why you should move to Albuquerque, New Mexico**

Santa Fe Adjacent

California

Michigan

Minnesota

New Jersey

New York

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

Colorado’s appeal is multilayered. Of course, there are the Rockies—snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and Instagrammable vistas—but beyond the obvious, the state reveals itself in its micro-regions and quirks.

Denver has grown into a full-fledged metro, attracting industries from aerospace to fintech. Neighborhoods like RiNo and Cap Hill pulse with murals, independent bookstores, and some of the best third-wave coffee west of the Mississippi. Yet, 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll find Golden, a once-sleepy brewery town now thriving with young families, hikers, and mountain bikers—all while still housing Coors’ giant facility.

Boulder, perched between rugged wilderness and intellectual ambition, is equal parts Patagonia fleece and startup pitch decks. It’s home to Naropa University (the country’s only accredited Buddhist-inspired school) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, reflecting the state’s unique mix of spiritual curiosity and scientific rigor.

To the north, Fort Collins flies a little under the radar but boasts Colorado State University, a jumping historic downtown, and enough breweries to rival cities twice its size. Meanwhile, Colorado Springs feels like a different state altogether—home to multiple military installations, it leans more conservative but surprises visitors with epic natural landmarks like Garden of the Gods and the quirky artist enclave Manitou Springs, where mineral springs bubble out of old-timey fountains.

Then there are the mountain towns that get less attention than Aspen or Vail:

- Salida: An artsy river town known for whitewater festivals and a historic downtown dotted with galleries.
- Paonia: Tucked on the Western Slope, it’s where organic farmers, artists, and winemakers coexist—a quieter, greener slice of Colorado.
- Crested Butte: A former mining town turned "wildflower capital of Colorado," still fiercely local despite its world-class skiing.
- Leadville: The highest-elevation incorporated city in the U.S., with Wild West vibes, antique shops, and a reputation for producing ultra-endurance athletes.

- Even Pueblo, long dismissed as a steel town, is experiencing a mini-renaissance—check out its green chile scene, which locals claim beats New Mexico’s any day.


**Lifestyle**

Colorado is all about the blend: high-intensity outdoor pursuits and laid-back social life. People measure days by powder totals or trail mileage, but they’re equally serious about craft beer, local music, and farm-to-table brunch.

There’s a statewide obsession with gear—ski racks are practically standard issue—and the unspoken dress code skews toward Patagonia puffer jackets, trail runners, and trucker hats. Even at upscale restaurants, you’ll find Gore-Tex mingling with linen.
Summer weekends revolve around farmers' markets, mountain festivals (like Telluride Bluegrass), and patio culture, where people sip IPAs while their dogs lounge nearby. Yes, 
Colorado is one of the most dog-friendly states in the country—don’t be surprised to see pups on brewery patios, hiking trails, and even paddleboards.

The weed industry is fully mainstream here—legal since 2012, dispensaries now sit next to yoga studios, and CBD drinks are common on menus. Despite the outdoor glamour, winters can drag, especially along the Front Range, where weeks of “brown season” (dry, gray winter days) test your patience if you’re not skiing every weekend.


**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Outdoor Diehards: Skiers, mountain bikers, climbers, and trail runners all build their lives around nature’s calendar.

- Remote Workers: Many are now settling in places like Buena Vista, Pagosa Springs, or Ouray for mountain views and coworking spaces that offer reliable fiber internet.

- Young Professionals: Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins attract college graduates seeking startup jobs in tech and a social scene that is outdoorsy and active.

- Families: Suburban areas such as Louisville, Superior, and Castle Rock provide excellent schools, greenbelts, and proximity to both the city and the mountains.

- Military & Veterans: Particularly in Colorado Springs, where military bases and VA services have a significant presence.

- Artists, Creatives, and Off-Gridders: These individuals are moving to smaller towns like Paonia, Crestone (known for its spiritual retreats), and Trinidad, where former mining towns are being transformed into vibrant art communities.

**Worklife** 

**Major Industries:**

- Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and dozens of military installations fuel this sector.

- Tech & Startups: Boulder leads, but Denver is fast catching up with expansions from Google, Amazon, and a strong venture capital scene.

- Healthcare & Life Sciences: Anchored by the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and countless health-tech startups.

- Outdoor Rec & Tourism: A massive industry—from ski resorts to bike gear startups like Yeti Cycles.

- Renewable Energy & Green Tech: Solar farms, wind energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure are booming, especially east of Denver.

- Craft Beer & Cannabis: Both industries are major employers and cultural forces. Denver’s Great American Beer Festival draws thousands annually.

The work culture here is serious about productivity but just as serious about play. Flex hours are common—so is the “Friday early out” to chase powder or head to the hills. People here don’t brag about work hours—they brag about the number of 14ers climbed.

**Why Move Here Now?**

Colorado’s mix of economic opportunity and lifestyle remains hard to beat, but the secret’s long been out. Housing costs—especially in Denver, Boulder, and mountain towns—are steep. Still, the “live where you vacation” dream is possible, especially if you’re strategic about location.

Remote work has made previously overlooked places—think Montrose, Rifle, or Florence—more appealing. These towns offer affordability, mountain access, and emerging arts scenes without the crowds or costs of Summit County.
Meanwhile, climate-conscious infrastructure investments and Colorado’s renewable energy push are attracting a new wave of green tech talent. If you’re looking for a place where your weekends feel like a vacation, your weekdays pay the bills, and your backyard is the view—Colorado still delivers.

Just be ready for the quirks: expect your weather app to lie, brace for spring hailstorms, and know that people here take their green chile—and their Broncos—very seriously.

Colorado

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Virginia offers a little bit of everything—beaches, busy cities, historic towns, mountain views, and adventures for the outdoorsy types.  Families can find charming colonial neighborhoods to settle in or a tech-driven suburb, and young professionals (or families) will find cities known for culture and lifestyle (tons of breweries) —and none of it feels out of place.

Northern Virginia cities like Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax get a lot of attention for their young professional scene, government jobs (shaky right now but still), and shiny high-rises. But head west, and things shift—Charlottesville, Richmond, and Roanoke are growing fast, thanks to lower housing costs, beautiful scenery, and thriving food and arts communities.
And yes, Virginia’s got beaches. Virginia Beach and Norfolk offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle while still keeping you within driving distance of larger cities.
Lifestyle 

Virginia balances history and modern life better than most. There are amazing historic landmarks and battlefield tours, but it’s also a growing tech hub, home to a solid craft beer scene, and packed with outdoor activities—from hiking in the Shenandoah Mountains to kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay.

Public schools, especially in Northern Virginia, are notably strong, with Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ)  in Alexandria frequently rated the #1 public high school in the country. You get four distinct seasons, plenty of small-town festivals, and easy access to both mountains and beaches. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home.


**Who’s Moving to Virginia?**

- Families: Especially to Northern Virginia and Richmond suburbs for the schools, safety, and space.

- Young professionals: Drawn to government (prepare for this to change), tech, and consulting jobs in DC-adjacent areas like Arlington and Alexandria.

- Retirees and second-home buyers: Looking for less expensive mountain views or coastal living.

- Military families: With large bases in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Quantico.


**Worklife**

Virginia has a strong job market with several major industries driving growth:

- Government and defense: Big in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads although federal jobs are disappearing. 

- Tech and data centers: Amazon HQ2 in Arlington and Loudoun County’s “Data Center Alley”

- Healthcare and education: UVA, VCU, and major hospital networks

- Tourism, shipping, and military: Especially along the coast

The state consistently ranks as one of the best for business. Salaries are strong, especially near DC, though the cost of living is higher there too. Farther south or west, your money goes a lot further.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Virginia is hitting a good stride—a strong economy, a cultural boost in mid-sized cities, and more opportunities popping up beyond the DC suburbs. If you want East Coast energy without New York or Boston prices, Virginia’s a great option.
There’s a lot to like: solid job prospects, a wide range of places to live, and easy access to nature. Remote workers are starting to notice cities like Charlottesville and Richmond for their charm and affordability. And if you’re in tech, Amazon’s expansion means even more jobs on the horizon.

Bottom Line: Move for the jobs, stay for the mountain views, farmers markets, and the fact that you can hike on Saturday and hit the beach on Sunday. Virginia’s got space for you


Virginia

Massachusetts

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, driven by a combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and a more reasonable cost of living than many large metro areas on the East Coast. For people looking to bail on expensive cities like New York, Boston, or D.C., North Carolina’s growing mid-sized cities hit a sweet spot—offering urban energy without the overwhelming cost or scale.

Charlotte and Raleigh remain the fastest-growing hubs, but what’s fueling the state’s appeal are cities like Durham, Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville. These places have seen significant investment in arts, culture, and local businesses, creating vibrant downtowns and neighborhoods while maintaining accessibility and affordability. Wilmington, with its historic riverfront and proximity to beaches, adds a coastal option with similar momentum.

North Carolina offers a blend of lifestyles—from dense city cores to suburban communities and small mountain or coastal towns—all within a state that delivers four distinct seasons and easy access to both the Atlantic and the Appalachians.

**Lifestyle** 

Living in North Carolina means having access to almost every kind of landscape and lifestyle you can imagine. The mountains of western North Carolina, including the Blue Ridge and Smokies, draw hikers, climbers, and people looking for small-town life with incredible scenery. Asheville anchors the region with a nationally recognized food scene, music venues, craft breweries, and a progressive arts community—all surrounded by nature.
Along the coast, places like Wilmington, New Bern, and the Outer Banks offer a completely different pace of life—historic charm, beach towns, and maritime culture.

In between, North Carolina’s mid-sized cities have grown into dynamic cultural hubs. Durham, once defined by tobacco warehouses, is now a food, music, and startup center, balancing grit and growth. Greensboro and Winston-Salem have embraced their history while building arts districts, indie music venues, and foodie scenes that attract newcomers looking for quality of life without the price tag of bigger cities.
Outdoor recreation is baked into the lifestyle—weekends are often spent hiking, kayaking, hitting the coast, or exploring dozens of state parks. Meanwhile, urban centers keep adding restaurants, music festivals, museums, and farmers markets that make daily life feel rich and varied.

Housing costs have risen, particularly in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville, but remain notably more reasonable compared to cities like D.C., New York, or Boston. Mid-sized cities and suburbs still offer affordable homeownership options, which continues to draw families, young professionals, and retirees.


**Who’s Moving to North Carolina?**

Young professionals and remote workers: The combination of job opportunities and lifestyle has put places like Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte on the map. Increasingly, mid-sized cities like Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Asheville are drawing remote workers who want cultural amenities without the high price tag.

- Families: Good schools, growing suburbs, and attainable home prices make North Carolina a top choice for families leaving higher-cost states. Suburban areas around Raleigh and Charlotte, like Cary or Huntersville, are growing fast.

- Retirees: North Carolina is a retirement destination—particularly western towns like Asheville, Hendersonville, and Boone, or coastal towns like New Bern and Southport, where people are drawn to the mild climate and slower pace of life.

- Tech, biotech, and finance workers: Raleigh-Durham’s Research Triangle remains a major driver of growth, along with Charlotte’s powerhouse banking sector. Mid-sized cities are seeing a ripple effect as people seek affordability near these job centers.


**Worklife** 

North Carolina’s economy is diverse, which has helped it stay resilient and attractive to new residents:

- Tech, biotech, and healthcare: The Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill) is home to major universities, research parks, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. This area competes nationally for talent.

- Finance and banking: Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the U.S., home to Bank of America and major offices for Wells Fargo, Truist, and others.

- Education: With strong public universities and private colleges, education remains a huge employer, feeding into the region’s research and innovation economy.

- Tourism, arts, and service industries: The mountains and coast pull in millions of visitors each year, supporting a growing tourism economy that fuels restaurants, shops, and creative industries in cities and small towns alike.

- Remote work is also changing the landscape, as people relocate from expensive markets to cities like Asheville or Wilmington, seeking a better work-life balance without sacrificing culture or community.


**Why Move Here Now?**

North Carolina is in that rare window of growth where the state feels exciting but still livable. While housing costs are rising, they remain manageable compared to the Northeast or West Coast. Newcomers are often surprised at how much house—or quality of life—they can afford here.

The job market is strong, especially in tech, biotech, finance, and education, and there’s momentum in the arts, food, and cultural scenes, particularly in mid-sized cities that still feel accessible.

If you’re looking for a place that offers career opportunities, space to explore, and a more affordable cost of living—all without sacrificing culture—North Carolina’s cities, especially its rising mid-sized ones, are worth a serious look.


North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Maryland might be one of the smallest states by land area, but it feels expansive in the variety of places, landscapes, and cultures you’ll find here. Locals sometimes call it “America in Miniature”—and it fits. Within a few hours, you can go from the crab houses and maritime history of the Eastern Shore to the rolling farmland and horse country of Howard and Carroll counties, then up into the Appalachian foothills in Western Maryland.

Baltimore—gritty, beautiful, and still deeply local—anchors the state with its historic brick row houses, growing arts scene, and a complicated but evolving identity. It’s a city of neighborhoods, from the cobblestone streets of Fells Point to the indie shops and music venues in Hampden. Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland draw researchers, students, and healthcare workers, while the Port of Baltimore keeps the city tied to global trade.

The DC suburbs—places like Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and College Park—are among the most diverse in the country. They’re fast-paced, career-driven, and home to major employers in tech, healthcare, defense, and international policy. Montgomery County consistently ranks high for public school systems, while Prince George’s County—once overlooked—is booming with development and homeownership among Black professionals.

Then there’s the Chesapeake Bay—arguably Maryland’s emotional center. Fishing villages, waterfront towns, and a deep-rooted culture of crabbing and boating shape life here. In places like St. Michaels or Solomons, watermen traditions meet weekenders from DC.


**Lifestyle** 

Maryland is a state of contrasts:

- Outdoors: Summers bring locals out for blue crab feasts, sailing regattas, and Eastern Shore beaches like Ocean City or Assateague Island, where wild ponies roam. Hikers find solace in the Catoctin Mountains or the Maryland stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In the fall, leaf-peeping in western Maryland rivals New England.

- Suburban Professional: Many Marylanders are commuters, with highways like I-270 and the Capital Beltway packed every weekday. Work-life here often revolves around careers in government contracting, federal agencies, or research labs.

- Cultural: Baltimore punches above its weight in music, art, and food. It's home to quirky traditions like the annual HonFest, while the nearby suburbs offer concert venues, museums, and some of the country's best public libraries.

- Education-Focused: With several nationally ranked school districts, plus colleges like UMD College Park, Loyola, and St. John’s in Annapolis, education drives many families’ choices.

The cost of living is high in the DC metro area—Montgomery County and Howard County are expensive but offer great schools and amenities. Meanwhile, Baltimore City and parts of the Eastern Shore remain relatively affordable, though income disparities can be stark.


**Who’s Moving to Maryland?**

- Government and Defense Professionals: With NSA, NIH, and countless government contractors, Maryland is a hub for federal careers.

- Healthcare and Biotech Workers: The state’s economy is built around giants like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System, and a growing biotech corridor around Gaithersburg and Rockville.

- Families: Strong school systems, safe suburbs, and access to both urban and rural life make it a prime target for families.

- Nature and Water Lovers: The Bay, mountains, and access to the Atlantic draw people who don’t want to choose between city life and nature.


**Worklife**

Maryland boasts some of the highest median incomes in the country, but it comes with a cost. Key industries include:

- Government, Defense, and Cybersecurity (Fort Meade, NSA, countless Beltway contractors)

- Healthcare and Life Sciences (Johns Hopkins, NIH, biotech firms in the I-270 corridor)

- Port and Shipping (Baltimore’s port is one of the busiest on the East Coast)

- Education (Universities, research centers, and public school systems)

Maryland’s job market tends to be resilient especially near D.C.—especially in recession-proof industries like healthcare, science, and in prior administrations, federal government work. High wages can offset higher living costs, particularly in areas like Montgomery County.


**Why Move Here Now?**

Baltimore is changing -- neighborhood revitalization, a growing arts scene, and affordable historic homes make it a city to invest in. The DMV’s tech and biotech boom means Maryland’s share of the tech and life sciences boom is growing fast, especially in Montgomery County and the suburbs along I-270.

Waterfront and small-town charm aplenty, with coastal towns offering an escape that feels worlds away from DC but still within reach for weekends or remote work. Finally, access without total commitment: Maryland lets you plug into DC’s energy, Baltimore’s grit, or nature’s calm—all without fully committing to just one lifestyle.


Maryland

Washington is not what most people around the country think if their view is based solely on the Emerald City. You’ve got Seattle, yes — the tech hub with glassy towers, expensive lattes, and endless cranes reshaping the skyline. But Washington’s story is bigger and weirder than that.

Head east and you hit the Cascades, where towns like Leavenworth lean hard into their Bavarian cosplay — full-on Alpine architecture and Christmas markets, even in summer. Cross those mountains and the state turns dry, golden, and wide open — apple orchards, hops fields, and wine country roll through the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla. It’s a different state over there, one that cares more about rodeos and crop yields than whatever Seattle’s latest zoning fight is about.

There’s also the pocket-sized, artsy cities people don’t talk about enough — Bellingham, tucked up near the Canadian border with its crunchy, outdoorsy vibe and a local ski hill just 30 minutes up the road; Olympia, the capital, where the punk music scene still has a pulse and the farmers market is the real social center; and Port Townsend, a Victorian seaport town known for wooden boat festivals and a whole lot of ghost stories.

What keeps people here is the geography — Puget Sound, the Olympics, Mount Rainier looming massive. There’s a certain stubborn pride about how many people own a kayak and know how to dig their clams. You don’t have to go far to find someone who will try to convince you their corner of Washington is the best — whether that’s a foggy coastal town, a moss-draped mountain pass, or a sunny plateau east of the mountains. And honestly, they’re all kind of right.



**Lifestyle** 

Living here means you learn to live with the weather — or love it. Western Washington’s gray season lasts months, but the long, golden summer days make up for it. The east side flips the script — hot, dry summers and winters that mean snow.

People are big on the outdoors, but not in a performative way. It's less Instagram hiking and more “this is just what we do.” Mountain biking in the Cascades, skiing at Stevens Pass, trail running in the Issaquah Alps, or mushroom hunting when the rains come — the connection to nature runs deep.

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here — it’s baked in. You’ll see people line up to return compost buckets at the farmers market or debate which salmon run needs protecting. There’s a hyper-local food scene, from oyster farms like Hama Hama to foraged nettles making their way into restaurant menus.

Housing is a mixed bag. Seattle and the Eastside (Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland) are expensive, with median home prices well above $900k. But smaller cities like Spokane or the Tri-Cities offer more space and sunshine without completely unplugging you from the economy.



**Who’s Moving to Colorado?**

- Tech folks chasing jobs at Amazon, Microsoft, and the sprawl of startups. The Eastside suburbs — Bellevue, Kirkland, Sammamish — are full of transplants figuring out the PNW way.

- Families looking for good schools, parks, and the rare suburban neighborhood where you can still walk to a coffee shop (Issaquah and North Bend, looking at you).

- Outdoor types — climbers, paddlers, skiers — folks who want a job and mountains in their backyard. Bellingham and Wenatchee both punch above their weight for this crowd.

- Healthcare and education workers — UW, WSU, major hospital systems, and growing biotech hubs keep the state anchored beyond tech.

- And increasingly, people just looking for a lifestyle shift — artists, remote workers, folks burned out on California or Texas sprawl — are finding their way here.



**Worklife**

The job market stays solid, especially if you’re in:

- Tech: Seattle’s core, Bellevue’s new skyscrapers, and a growing remote scene

- Aerospace: Boeing’s still big, even if quieter than it once was

- Healthcare: especially in Seattle and Spokane

- Agriculture: apples, cherries, hops, and wine rule Eastern Washington

- Shipping and trade: major ports in Seattle and Tacoma keep global goods moving

The interesting thing is how the economy balances — world-class tech and scrappy farming towns coexist, sometimes uneasily, but it works.



**Why Move Here Now?**

Washington’s still growing, but in ways that give you choices. Yes, Seattle’s pricey, but places like Spokane, Bellingham, and even Bremerton are growing fast without feeling like polished suburbs yet. The access to nature is unbeatable, but what might surprise people is how distinct each region feels.
You could live where you’re skiing before work, or where you’re sipping wine on your porch at sunset. You could be downtown for an Amazon meeting or out in the San Juans watching orcas. Washington has range — that’s the real sell.


City Size

Region

City Type

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Santa Fe Adjacent

Looklyloo Score: 88