While outsiders may best know Louisville as March Madness heaven, Louisville is low-key a foodie town. While the tourists are 100% going to be downtown on the main drag, you’ll find a crapload of amazing restaurants and drink spots even just off the downtown center. Nulu, or “New Louisville” is best known for its growing number of local restaurants. Or if Farmer’s Markets are your thing, hit up Douglass Loop on a Saturday with friends!

Unless you live in “walker’s paradise,” AKA the central business district, you’ll need a car. Almost all residents in Louisville rely on their own transportation, and parking downtown for a night out can be expensive and a headache to find on a busy night.


The food and drinks!

LookyLOO Review of Louisville?

Louisville is often described as a dense suburb and for valid reasons in regards to both the good and the bad. A plethora of parks, the aforementioned emphasis on local restaurants and bars as centers of social life, and moderate politics are also representative of that suburban atmosphere. Sprawl is a downside, and so is the fact that there’s not too much to do socially in addition to those restaurants and bars. While the weather is notorious for oscillating between 90 and humid and 36 and rainy, people in Louisville are generally regarded as friendly and hospitable. 

In addition to these staples of suburbia, Louisville has several amenities that living in a normal suburb does not afford. Louisville is the home of iconic world sports sites like the famous Kentucky Derby, and the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, and is where March Madness has been historically held. Louisville is also known for its live music, and, of course, its bourbon. Be sure to hit up a festival and try some of Kentucky’s favorite whiskey if you ever move in or are simply passing through.

If you're interested in seeing what locals get up to in Louisville check out the [calendar of events](https://www.gotolouisville.com/events-calendar/). 

We highly recommend visiting Louisville 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 

The Louisville area is home to a surprising number of large companies that you probably didn’t know were located there if you aren’t from Louisville. Texas Roadhouse and Yum! Brands (which operates brands such as KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut) are both headquartered in the area, and Papa Johns is just a quick hop over the Ohio River in Jefferson, Indiana. If you can’t see yourself working in big food, that’s alright, because large healthcare companies like Humana and Kindred Healthcare, as well as a wide variety of new companies popping up downtown provide a diverse range of options for Louisvillians. Most people in the Louisville area work in person and commute via car.  Housing prices are well under the national average, so families and young professionals alike tend to live in larger and more comfortable situations than they would be able to in larger metropolitan areas.


Worklife 

Louisville public schools are part of the [Jefferson County School District](https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/). As with most middle to big cities the quality of the public schools in the district varies, and it receives a ["B" grade on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/jefferson-county-public-schools-ky/). The district scores highest for College Prep and Clubs & Activities. 

The highest-scoring schools are pretty spread out but the north and northeast sides of the city seem to have a few high performers. 

The Top Schools in the area include:
-[DuPont Manual High School](https://dupontmanual.com/) ranks highest among all public high schools in the state, receiving an ["A+" on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/dupont-manual-high-school-louisville-ky/?map). It is most highly regarded for Academics and College Prep and is the state's premier magnet school. 
-Louisville Male High School is another high-ranking magnet school, receiving an ["A" on niche.com](https://www.niche.com/k12/louisville-male-high-school-louisville-ky/?map) and is listed as the 3rd best magnet school in the state. 
-[J. Graham Brown School](https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/page/j-graham-brown-school) is another pearl in the public school system in Louisville. It's rated the #3 best public high school in the state and clocks in at an [**"A" on niche.com**](https://www.niche.com/k12/j-graham-brown-school-louisville-ky/). 



Schools

Louisville, besides being underrated as a foodie town, is just underrated in general. It has a lower cost of living and a quaint college-town feel. Settle in, grab a Hot Brown and let’s do this!

Underrated

Why You Should Move Here Now?

**artful_todger_502**
Living in Louisville
8mo ago
✭✭✭✭

I've lived in places from Vermont to Florida and unpacked here. Absolutely the best place I've ever lived. I'm originally from Philly, meanest city on the earth, so I've been around.

But, we have our unfortunate issues as every city does, but the good far outweighs the bad for me.

With me personally, all those places I've lived, the ones ive had an expectation for, are there ones that let me down.

So I would suggest if you/me/anyone were to look here, don't think it will be a magic panacea to fix your life, but try to focus on what it has, which to me, weird, leftie art appreciator, is great culture and great people. Always something to do.

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

Sweet but Almost no Walkability.

Reviews of Louisville from Locals

**The Best Thing About Louisville?**  The food and drinks!

While Louisville may best be known by outsiders as March Madness heaven, Louisville is lowkey a foodie town. While the tourists are 100% going to be downtown on the main drag, you’ll find a ton of amazing restaurants and drink spots even just off the downtown scene. Nulu, or “New Louisville” is best known for it’s growing number of local restaurants. Or if Farmer’s Markets are your thing, hit up Douglass Loop on a Saturday with friends!

**The Worst Thing About Louisville?**  Almost no walkability

Unless you live in “walker’s paradise,” AKA the central business district, you’ll need a car. Almost all residents in Louisville rely on their own transportation, and parking downtown for a night out can be expensive and a headache to find on a busy night. 

**How You Living?**  Neighborhood Pride!

Because of the low walkability of Louisville, most people pick a neighborhood they feel at home in! If you’re looking for the new trendy spot, stick to Nulu or the East Market. If you are feeling college town vibes, check out Old Louisville; just south of downtown, it’s known for its Victorian Homes and proximity to the University of Louisville. Similar to the Highlands, Germantown is a family favorite with shotgun houses, an eclectic mix of local businesses and a small-town feel!

**Why You Should Move Here Now?**  

Louisville, besides being underrated as a foodie town, is just underrated in general. It has a lower cost of living and a quaint college-town feel. Settle in, grab a Hot Brown and let’s do this!


Louisville sits on the northern central border of Kentucky and Indiana, with Indianapolis directly north, Cincinnati north east, Lexington east, and Nashville a decent drive south. Because Louisville sits on the Ohio River, the city layout is going to be similar to other cities that lay on a large lake or river (like Detroit), in that the downtown area is on the water, one side of the city stretches along that same body of water, and the neighborhoods and highways fan out from there (south and south east in Louisville’s case). From a map, it looks like Louisville covers a lot of area, but there are multiple small cities inside Louisville city limits that…aren’t actually Louisville. Take St. Matthews for instance. A lot of locals will recommend St. Matthews for people who have kids because the area has really great schools and, even though you’re only about a 15 minute drive to downtown, St. Matthews not Louisville.

The Area

Louisville is huge for colleges and universities, the University of Louisville and Bellarmine University being the largest in the area. There are great restaurants, bars, and a ton of student discounts to support the city’s love for the college students who live there. If you’re looking for amazing nightlife and even better restaurants, look no further than The Highlands. Known as “Restaurant Row", it’s a popular spot for late-night eats, but it also has amazing shops and plenty of parks for weekends enjoying the nice weather!
- The Highlands
- Germantown
- Clifton


College Students

The Highlands

Young professionals relocating to Louisville are going to love the city’s perfect combination of city life and low cost of living. A great neighborhood to start your search in is Clifton. It’s affordable, walkable (to an extent), and has a ton of locally owned restaurants and thrift shops. It’s also close to other great neighborhoods like The Highlands and Nulu, so you can switch up late-night spots!
- Clifton
- The Highlands
- Crescent Hill
- Downtown


Young Professionals

Clifton

If you’re looking to relocate to Louisville and you’re without kids, you have to check out Crescent Hill. There are a ton of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars to hang out at. The area is also super dog friendly, so if your family leans furry, you’ve got no problems here. You’ll have plenty of amazing days going out to Eggs for brunch, browsing new titles at Carmichael’s Bookstore, and grabbing takeout at Simply Mediterranean.
- Crescent Hill
- Nulu
- The Highlands


DINKs/SINKs

Crescent Hill

The city of Louisville leans liberal/progressive and has a ton of neighborhoods that are LGBTQ+ friendly. It was even the first and only city in the state to earn a perfect score on the MEI (the Human Rights Campaign 2017 Municipal Equality Index). This means that the city was evaluated on how inclusive the laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ+ people who live in the city. There are plenty of great neighborhoods, minutes from downtown, where you can find a great place. Besides our personal favorite, Old Louisville, there’s Smoketown, Germantown, and Clifton, to name a few. If you start your search in Old Louisville, you’ll be just a couple minutes from downtown and close to Central Park– perfect for enjoying summer picnics and concerts. Be sure to check out the gorgeous historic homes and you won’t be disappointed!
- Old Louisville
- Germantown
- Clifton


LGBTQ+

Old Louisville

Louisville is a great intermediate city to raise a family in. It’s not too big, but it’s not a small town. The thing to know if you plan on having kids in the city is that the schools do run on the lottery system, even public ones. For public schools in the city, you’ve given a list of schools that are in your approximate area, you rank them from most interested to least, and then you’re assigned a school. Locals say you often get your school of choice, but it is something to keep in mind! Start your search in the St Matthews, where you can find amazing shopping, movie theaters, and gorgeous single-family homes. 
- St. Matthews
- Seneca Gardens
- Shively


Families

St. Matthews

Louisville

**artful_todger_502**
Living in Louisville
8mo ago
✭✭✭✭

I've lived in places from Vermont to Florida and unpacked here. Absolutely the best place I've ever lived. I'm originally from Philly, meanest city on the earth, so I've been around.

But, we have our unfortunate issues as every city does, but the good far outweighs the bad for me.

With me personally, all those places I've lived, the ones ive had an expectation for, are there ones that let me down.

So I would suggest if you/me/anyone were to look here, don't think it will be a magic panacea to fix your life, but try to focus on what it has, which to me, weird, leftie art appreciator, is great culture and great people. Always something to do.


**Louisville vs. Atlanta?**

**lexprofile**
Living in Louisville
1y ago
✭✭✭

I grew up here and briefly considered moving to Atlanta. I have friends down there and between all my visits have probably spent close to a year there by now.

Louisville is scaled down from Atlanta in almost every way. We have a few smell stretches of road that rival the perimeter, but they are the exception. Personally I think we’re closing the gap when it comes to food and entertainment. For a while it felt stagnant here and I swore I’d never settle down after college. Around the time I considered moving, Louisville seemed to be developing in ways that were meaningful to me. So I stuck around and am happy here.

Climate wise, it’s really not that different. Summer is in full swing by June and we don’t really get Fall until late October. It can get bitter for a couple weeks in January but things start warming up in February.

Some things we have that Atlanta does not - easily accessible nature trails and a surplus of Bourbon distilleries. We’re also centrally located between Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Nashville. All of which are about a 2 hour drive - which isn’t much if you’re accustomed to Atlanta travel times.

**What do you wish you knew before moving to Louisville?**

anonymous
Living in Louisville
1y ago
✭✭✭✭

Edited 1y ago
I moved here from nyc originally and I was surprised at how liberal this city is (in the right parts) like yes you can drive for 30 minutes and end up in small town Kentucky but walkable city neighborhoods like germantown and old louisville and the highlands are very openly progressive, pride posters, my favorite coffee shop has free plan b in the bathroom etc

Biking seems a little sketchy because people here truly do drive their cars more aggressively than I’ve ever seen anywhere else. but if you stick to smaller streets and have lights and a helmet you’ll probably do ok, it’s just city biking so it’s always going to be scarier than like small town biking

Walking is pretty good there are sidewalks everywhere as long as you’re not out in the burbs

Germantown is Bushwick btw

Cherokee park is park slope

Highlands are Williamsburg

Clifton is greenpoint (minus the pollocks, ugh no Polish food anywhere)

Shelby park is bed stuy but like 5-10 years ago

People here are super friendly, I think it’s a Midwest thing? Everyone says hi on the streets, my neighbors all talk to me etc

Everyone talks shit on Indiana and it’s hilarious because the rest of the country talks shit on Kentucky but once you live here for like 3 months you’ll inexplicably think Indiana is really lame just warning you

Is Louisville a good place to live right now? particularly for LGBTQ+ community?

**anonymous**
Living in Louisville
2y ago
✭✭✭

I'll answer your question more directly. I think yes, this city is generally accepting of the LGBT community and I've met gay/queer Asian people who like it here and have made it home. I'm white and gay and have really enjoyed my last few years here.

I get where others say 'move to a blue state', which I would say generally yes do that, but that's not what you asked. This city has good bones, I think it will grow a lot in the future due to affordability issues in other cities. However the gay community here can be kind of cliquish, but I think almost all gay communities tend to be just due to the nature of society. It's changed drastically in the past couple of decades though as more people have came out and the LGBT population grows.

If saving money and having access to some city amenities you'd have back in LA is what you need, absolutely move. Political and loftier ideals aside, sometimes financial reasons are entirely acceptable reasons to move even to red states. I could not imagine living in California and not making at least $200,000 a year, it would be miserable, a lot of people in the center of the country don't understand what's going on out there.

**Living in Louisville | This City is MORE than Kentucky Derby**

Southern Comfort with Midwest Practicality

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

Louisville, Kentucky

Southern Comfort with Midwest Practicality

Looklyloo Score: 90