A natural harbor makes for one of the best ports on the East Coast, and shipping and shipbuilding activity along with fishing and seaport-related commerce. With this level of access to all types of water (ocean, bays, Inter-coastal, rivers, swamp), it could turn any landlubber into a water-lover overnight. The military plays a huge part in life here – It is the number 2 destination in the county for military retiree’s. Many places claim to be “a family,” but Chesapeake might win the prize. Because of its maritime and military background – and location, generations run very deep in the area.

Being coastal is both amazing and, at times, frustrating – navigating the streets, roads, and highways in and around the area requires crossing several bridges and tunnels, and without a metro rail and limited mass transit, this makes for very unpredictable travel times. As the military decommission bases, the installations and surrounding neighborhoods in some situations have become neglected. Business opportunities are tilted heavily toward government and related business. This could also be seen as a good thing if you work for the government. 

We highly recommend visiting Chesapeake 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). 


Beach and coastal paradise.

LookyLOO Review of Chesapeake

Chesapeake is roughly divided into 4 areas – in 3 of the four, Western Branch, Deep Creek, and  Greenbrier, single-family homes, of varying lot sizes, dominate. Most have front and backyards which play a big part in living here.  

The South Norfolk neighborhood (officially part of the city of Chesapeake) has been transforming and is emerging as a more urban area featuring a mix of revitalized loft spaces, row houses, and a few eclectic shops and cafés. This area is unique compared to other neighborhoods, which tend to have a feel of the suburbs.  Most of the city retail zones are mall-like/big boxes. The restaurants are a mix of fast-casual, national or regional chains. With entertainment and dining options somewhat limited you may need to be prepared to make your fun and dinner.


Lifestyle 

Compared to many East Coast seaside cities Chesapeake remains relatively undiscovered. It is easily possible to find great real estate value pockets on classic southern homes. The sense of community is apparent in every nook and cranny of the area. People here are very friendly. And if you strike up a conversation about boating or the Navy you may be in for a nice long chat.  The pace is not brisk which suits the local’s just fine. 


Discovery

Why You Should Move Here Now?

**Vert354**
10mo ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

Can't go wrong with Chesapeake Schools, (VB's are alright too I guess ;)

As for where you choose to live in Chesapeake a lot depends on your appetite for commuting and what you're looking for in a property.

If you want lots of land you'll need to look at the southern part of the city (Hickory, Ballahack, Fentress). However if you live south of the intercoastal waterway, you (and everyone else) will need to cross it to get to the major employment centers. There's a finite number of crossings so when one goes out the whole system can't grind to a halt (happened this last summer when some jag-off hit one of the bridges with a barge)

Western Branch, Deep Creek, and Great Bridge are pretty much pure suburban and will stay that way for the foreseeable future. (Not that there won't be development, but it will stay suburban) So look there for that lifestyle

South Norfolk and Indian River are built on urban street grids but are suburban density. South Norfolk is the historic center of the city (a large part of it is on the historic register, so if you own one of those homes you've got to get special permits to make changes) The presence of industry along the river and railroads peppered throughout can make it less desirable, but the city has been pushing for urban renewal, especially around Poindexter St.

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

Reviews of Chesapeake from Locals

**The Best Thing About Chesapeake?**  Beach and coastal paradise.  

A natural harbor makes for one of the best ports on the East Coast, and shipping and shipbuilding activity along with fishing and seaport-related commerce. With this level of access to all types of water (ocean, bays, Inter-coastal, rivers, swamp) it could turn any landlubber into a water-lover overnight. The military plays a huge part in life here – It is the number 2 destination in the county for military retiree’s. Many places claim to be “a family” but Chesapeake might actually win the prize. Because of its maritime and military background – and location, generations run very deep in the area. 


**The Worst Thing About Chesapeake?**

Being coastal is both amazing and at times frustrating – navigating the streets, roads and highway in and around the area requires crossing several bridges and tunnels and without a metro rail and limited mass transit this makes for very unpredictable travel times. As the military decommissions base’s the former installations and surrounding neighborhoods in some situation have become neglected. 
Business opportunities are tilted heavily to government and related business. This could also be seen as a good thing if you like working for the government.  
Not much of a concert scene and limited nightlife. 


**How You Living?**

Chesapeake is broadly divided into 4 area’s – in 3 of the four, Western Branch, Deep Creek and  Greenbrier, single family homes, of varying lots sizes, dominate. Most have front and backyards which play a big part of living here.  The South Norfolk neighborhood (officially part of the city of Chesapeake) has been undergoing a transformation and is emerging as a more urban area featuring a mix of revitalized loft spaces, row houses and a few eclectic shops and cafés. This area is unique compared to other neighborhoods, which tend to have a feel of the suburbs.  Most of the city retail zones are mall-like/big box. The restaurants are a mix of fast-casual, national or regional chains. With entertainment and dining options somewhat limited you may need to be prepared to make your own fun and dinner.


**Why You Should Move Here Now?**  Discovery

Compared to many East Coast seaside cities Chesapeake remains relatively undiscovered. It is easily possible to find great real estate value pockets on classic southern homes. The sense of community is apparent in every nook and cranny of the area. People here are very friendly. And if you strike up a conversation about boating or the Navy you may be in for a nice long chat.  The pace is not brisk which suits the local’s just fine. 


Historic South Norfolk is the closest thing to a young professional in Chesapeake. Redevelopment projects, those in the past and those planned make it an increasingly cool spot for youngsters as a result of newer loft apartments and condos, office and retail space, and planned commercial district. Chesapeake is largely suburban so this is your best bet if are looking for on area on the rise for youngsters. 
- Historic South Norfolk 


Young Professionals

Dock Landing is a riverfront neighborhood with beautiful old trees, great homes and yards,  and an enclosed safe feeling due to the single entrance to the streets. Most of the homes have pools for relieving the heat in summer and giving the kiddos a cool place to play. Good schools and again, plenty of yards and greenery to outdoor activities. Western Branch is another great choice. Home to some of the most highly-ranked schools in the state and beautiful homes near the water. The area also has access to great shopping, making it easy for families to stay stocked up on a daily basis. 
Dock Landing
- Western Branch
- Greenbrier
- Forest Lakes
- Summer Park 


Families

Chesapeake is a great spot for retiring as long as you don’t mind your primary commercial and social activities coming from neighboring Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Chesapeake is really a suburban city but one with beautiful green spaces, neighborhoods, and retirement communities. The planned communities that rise to the top include: Lighthouse Pointe and The Reserve at Greenbrier and a great neighborhood option in South Norfolk. In addition to luxury living options it also is home to an amazing medical complex in Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. 
- South Norfolk
- Lighthouse Pointe
- The Reserve


Retirees

Chesapeake

**Vert354**
10mo ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

Can't go wrong with Chesapeake Schools, (VB's are alright too I guess ;)

As for where you choose to live in Chesapeake a lot depends on your appetite for commuting and what you're looking for in a property.

If you want lots of land you'll need to look at the southern part of the city (Hickory, Ballahack, Fentress). However if you live south of the intercoastal waterway, you (and everyone else) will need to cross it to get to the major employment centers. There's a finite number of crossings so when one goes out the whole system can't grind to a halt (happened this last summer when some jag-off hit one of the bridges with a barge)

Western Branch, Deep Creek, and Great Bridge are pretty much pure suburban and will stay that way for the foreseeable future. (Not that there won't be development, but it will stay suburban) So look there for that lifestyle

South Norfolk and Indian River are built on urban street grids but are suburban density. South Norfolk is the historic center of the city (a large part of it is on the historic register, so if you own one of those homes you've got to get special permits to make changes) The presence of industry along the river and railroads peppered throughout can make it less desirable, but the city has been pushing for urban renewal, especially around Pointexter St.

**jamieboy05**
2y ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

My husband accepted a job in Chesapeake in Oct 2020 and his company relocated us to VB in Nov 2020. We relocated from the Midwest. It was single handedly the hardest decision we have ever made in our lives. His family is from Chicago and and mine is from the just north of Houston. We both grew up in the Midwest all our lives and it was difficult leaving them behind.

That being said… DO IT! TAKE THE PLUNGE!!!! It was the best decision we ever made. No Hampton Roads is not as big as DFW area. But we have everything Dallas has here in Virginia Beach, just a smaller footprint. The beach’s are clean and there is so much history in your back yard. Virginia Beach schools are good as well. One thing that’s unique about VB is they have an Out of Zone process that allows children to remain in the same school if they happen to move zones There is some paperwork to fill out, but that stood out to me when looking into schools.

There are tons of family oriented things to do. Busch Gardens is about 50 minutes away in Williamsburg and there’s tons of things going on at Oceanfront during the on season. There’s a small aquarium. If your wanting a quieter beach to go than Ocean Front, I recommend checking out other local beaches like ocean view. Much quieter more locals. People are friendly here as a whole, and tend to keep to themselves. The job market, especially for middle class incomes is competitive and there are plenty of openings.

**Significant-Plenty51**
7mo ago
🦉🦉

Ok here is a history lesson, Chesapeake, Va Beach, and Suffolk only exist to tame Norfolk & Portsmouth growth. Norfolk & Portsmouth both have downtowns and traditional built neighborhoods. Yes Portsmouth has a downtown the 2nd best in Hampton Roads by a long shot. I digress, during the 1960s, the counties of South Hampton Roads didn't want to be annexed by Norfolk and Portsmouth. So the state basically passed laws that wouldn't allow any city to annex another city initially, so the beach town of Virginia Beach merged with Princess Anne County making the city of VA Beach. Chesapeake is in the same situation, the city of South Norfolk merging with Norfolk County. The funny thing is Chesapeake had a downtown in South Norfolk, but Chesapeake also didn't invest into South Norfolk because it was a majority black area. All in all a lot of racist things happened that even allowed these cities to come into being. The real eff up thing about Hampton Roads is our suburban cities have done nothing to drive culture, or help the region economically. As you've mentioned Chesapeake has nothing that helps the area economy it's just an area where tax money is held hostage behind city lines,same as Virginia Beach, and Suffolk. Can you believe Hampton Roads had 200,000 less people than NoVa in 1990. Hampton Roads was bigger than Raleigh, Charlotte, and Nashville. Within the last 30 years our area has barely grown. NoVa now has close to 4 million, and all those other metros are as big or bigger than ours. That should put into perspective how eff up Hampton Roads and its cities are.

**Obizzle9**
7mo ago
🦉🦉

Chesapeake has a large city planning meeting scheduled for the 22nd. I personally believe they are going to address some of the issues/ comments mentioned here. I feel that if Chesapeake wants to make a plan to move forward in building “up” it starts with Greenbrier. There is so much wasted space that the city has self imposed over the years. The major plans I’d recommend:

Walking/ bike access: Wholeheartedly I despise bike lanes, and that is not my suggestion (just to get that out of the way). However Chesapeake does have a number of great ways to make the city more accessible for pedestrians and for cyclists. An extended greenway from S Battlefield to the convention center could be a great start. A natural path already exists near the railway and additional trails would not be conceivably difficult to build. One example of an extension could be to Stumpy Lake. Utilizing the City Park as the “hub” would make for a happier and enticing environment, imho.

Greenbrier Mall: We need not say more, the Mall is failing and presumably close to shuttering its doors in the next two to five years, if not sooner. My suggestion is to capitalize on not only the land here but the situation found in Norfolk. The Scope is also failing with the city spending far more than it’s worth to keep the place afloat. If Chesapeake was smart they would build an entertainment district complete with stadium. Capacity would depend on anticipated venues, however hockey seems to be constant so no less than 7500 likely 10k to target. If they wanted to drive Scope entirely out of business they could build a small theater to accommodate the theater crowd as well. Plenty of bars, restaurants, and spit use property, similar to what is on Volvo. While I think this would be a huge win for Chesapeake I don’t think it will ever happen.

Infrastructure: Yikes, where to begin. While not necessarily every major artery is bad, most seem to have their problems. When I drive through Chesapeake I notice that the planning is almost nonexistent or comically bad. I mean is it possible that everything was an afterthought? At a certain point someone had to realize this city wasn’t getting any smaller, in fact it’s still growing despite 7% interest rates. A major traffic survey needs to be completed and identify the areas where the problem is worst. In some areas I doubt much, if anything, can be done but it’s worth analyzing the data and coming up with a solution.

**PROS AND CONS OF LIVING IN CHESAPEAKE VA**



One Increasing Purpose

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

Chesapeake, Virginia

One Increasing Purpose

Looklyloo Score: 89