Over the past 20 years, RC residents have watched countless cow pastures transform into brand-new residential and commercial construction. As the city grew, so did interest from families. Here they could find a turnkey home as low as $500,000, within the well-regarded Cordova-Folsom Unified School District surrounded by beautiful parks and businesses perfect for growing children. 

The city of Rancho Cordova is all-in on expanding its list of master-planned communities. In late 2023 alone it had a list of six development projects, the largest of which being Rio Del Oro where more than 12,000 attached and detached homes were developed northeast of Sunrise Boulevard and Douglas Road. These communities typically feature 3-bedroom homes on decently sized lots with access to great amenities like a clubhouse and pool. The only part you might not be excited about is the HOA dues. Every rose has its thorn, right?

When the kids aren’t attending their well-rated schools, they can connect with the outdoors at one of the area’s plentiful parks – the most popular of which is the [Hagan Community Park](http://crpd.com/parks/hagan-community-park/). Or, take the fun indoors at Wacky Tacky, K1 Racing, or Sac Town Family Fun. Admittedly, there is a lack of nightlife in Rancho Cordova, but that won’t matter to your 13-year-old. 

It’s a question that plagues every would-be Rancho Cordova resident: do we want the old or the new part of town? Each has its distinct perception. The more recently developed areas feature brand-new master-planned neighborhoods with either newly constructed commercial areas and schools or some sparse land that developers intend to bring to life one day. Most of these new developments reside south of the 50, the main freeway that bisects the city. 

The older parts of town, north of 50, have mixed reviews. Because it’s been around longer, it does have more commercial areas, like the main shopping area along Folsom Road. However, it also has a history of crime. According to locals, crime in the “older” part of town stood out as the greatest deterrent for those considering settling down in RC. However, as we mentioned, a lot has changed over the last 20 years. In the early 2000s, the city established its police force. According to the Rancho Cordova Police Department’s website, violent and property crimes have decreased by more than 65% in under two decades. 

Furthermore, other residents who have been around awhile reject the notion that everything above 50 is sketchy. There are well-established, small, peaceful neighborhoods in that area as well, they argue. Houses in such neighborhoods go for around the same price as the new builds south of 50. So, when working with your real estate agent, it’s important to know what your top priorities are. Most families moving to Rancho Cordova opt for the “new” part of town because of the clean modern homes and school district zoning (some sections of town outside of these master-planned communities are not zoned for the Cordova-Folsom Unified School District). 

Great Place to Grow (Up)

LookyLOO Review of Rancho Cordova

One of the greatest perks of living in Rancho Cordova is its proximity to places you’ll want to visit.  First, your access to nature is pretty outstanding. Running right through the city in all its glory is the American River. It offers residents endless recreation opportunities ranging from fishing and rafting to swimming and picnics with a view. The American River Trail winds alongside miles of the river and through [Hagan Community Park](https://crpd.com/parks/hagan-community-park/), and is a popular attraction for bikers and runners. Only 20 minutes away you’ll discover Folsom Lake, a great spot for fishing, mountain biking, and more. Another nearby body of water you might have heard of is Lake Tahoe. You can take the whole family for a weekend getaway to this famous oasis that sits only 2 hours from your front door.

As far as parks go, you’ve got plenty to choose from. Start with [Hagan Community Park](http://crpd.com/parks/hagan-community-park/), where you can fish in the pond, ride bikes, or jump in the American River. If you love the outdoors but hiking, biking, and boating aren’t your thing, then maybe you’ll be excited to learn about the [Granite Arch Climbing Center](https://granitearch.com/) located in the heart of RC along Folsom Boulevard. Here, 20,000 square feet of wall space is a great challenge for beginners and advanced climbers alike. Visitors can enjoy indoor top roping, an outdoor bouldering park, and some of North America’s “most natural indoor rock.” 

For the kids, Rancho Cordova offers tons of family-friendly entertainment. Take a Go Kart ride at K1 Racing, throw a birthday party amongst the indoor playgrounds of [Wacky Tacky](https://wackytacky.net/rancho/index.php), learn new things in the Sacramento Children’s Museum, or visit the [Sac Town Family Fun](https://www.sactownfamilyfun.com/) complex complete with an escape room, virtual reality arcade, glow-in-the-dark mini golf course, and more. Your. Options. Are. Endless.

Now, for the adults. As we mentioned, Rancho Cordova scores poorly for nightlife, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a spot to sit back and unwind. Home to just shy of 10 breweries (our favorite is [Movement Brewing](http://www.movementbrewingco.com/)), a drive-in movie theater, and the beautiful [Jensen Botanical Garden](https://www.carmichaelpark.com/jensen-botanical-garden), you can find something to fill your afternoon or evening. For food, residents look to local staples like the [Mimosa House](https://mimosahouseca.com/) and [Brookfield](https://brookrest.com/) for breakfast or a decent list of American and ethnic eateries with 4+ stars for lunch and dinner. Most of your shopping needs can be satisfied along Folsom Road. You’ve got a Safeway, KP International Market, Costo, and Sprouts all within 10 minutes of one another. And if needed, the amenities and cultural attractions of Sacramento, Elk Grove, and Folsom (and the fan-favorite [Folsom Premium Outlets](https://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/folsom) ) aren’t too far away. 

We avoided it as long as possible, but now it's time to talk about work. If you save lives for a living, chances are you’ll be able to keep your commute under 20 minutes if you work at any of the nearby hospitals like the UC Davis Hospital. If you’re a mere mortal like the rest of us, you may need to drive further for work. The good news? Sacramento is an easy 20 minutes away. Not to mention it's a straight shot (you won’t be dealing with other towns’ traffic on your way). You wouldn’t want to commute to San Francisco, obviously, but it’s nice to know that its sights, sounds, and smells are only 2.5 hours away. If you haven’t guessed already, you will need a vehicle if you want to live in Rancho Cordova. It’s close to major freeways, but public transportation cannot get you everywhere you need to go.


Brews + Beautiful Places

Lifestyle 

Most homes with the Rancho Cordova zip code are zoned for the [Folsom-Cordova Unified School District](https://www.fcusd.org/). This district serves about 21,000 students via its 21 elementary schools, four middle schools, three high schools, one charter school, and seven alternative schools. [Niche.com gives the district an “A” rating](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/folsom-cordova-unified-school-district-ca/), highlighting the district’s well above average academics, teachers, diversity, college prep and sports. 

It’s worth noting that although it is considered the best school district in Sacramento County, the majority of the top-ranking schools in this district are within Folsom City (check out the map on [this page](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/folsom-cordova-unified-school-district-ca/)). The two schools rated “A” within Rancho Cordova are [Mather Heights Elementary School](https://mhe.fcusd.org/ and [Riverview STEM Elementary School](https://www.fcusd.org/rve). Both the middle school and Cordova High School have “B” ratings. But hey, a B isn’t bad in our book.

For private options, residents benefit from being so close to Sacramento. Within Rancho Cordova, you’ll find “A+” rated St. John Vianney Catholic School (PK-8th), and beyond you’ll find Folsom’s Folsom Preparatory School (K-5) and Sacramento’s countless star pupils including Sacramento Country Day School (PK-12), Christian Brothers High School (9-12) and Jesuit High School (9-12). 


Above Average

Schools

According to real estate agents in the Sacramento area, people want to know where the new builds are. We can confidently say that Rancho Cordova is one answer to that question. If you appreciate the turnkey home, high-end finishes, pristine landscaping and well-maintained amenities that an HOA can provide, then we highly recommend checking out the master-planned communities being built here. Check out a current list of [**in-progress developments here**](https://www.cityofranchocordova.org/departments/community-development/planning/major-developments-and-projects).


Up and Coming

Why You Should Move Here Now

**fuzzmcmunn**
1y ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

I grew up in RC near the river. It was fairly safe and I had a great time with good neighbors and nice kids to play with.

We were safe, I could ride my bike and go on walks by myself, we didn’t have break ins or anything. The houses can be kind of small. My parents backs up to the parkway. Many of the same neighbors are still there.

There’s definitely parts of it that looks sketch but it’s not ghetto and I’ve never had problems grocery shopping or anything.

To be fair, I haven’t lived there is 10+ years but when I go home it’s still very similar.

For more reviews of what living in Rancho Cordova is like from locals, check out [The Reviews](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/rancho-cordova/reviews).



Reviews of Rancho Cordova from Locals

[Anatolia Village](https://anatoliahoa.org/) is a master-planned neighborhood that offers residents modern amenities within a comfortable suburban community. The neighborhood sits in the southern part of Rancho Cordova, between Sunrise Boulevard on the west and the new Rancho Cordova Parkway on the east, and from Douglas Road on the north to the greenbelt on the south. This very popular spot for families boasts well-maintained parks, walking trails, an enviable clubhouse, and great schools. 

Built in the mid-2000s, the neighborhood is home to nearly 2,100 single-family detached homes. They are typically 4- to 5-bedrooms at a price point between $600-900,000.

The neighborhood is bordered by multiple green spaces and preserved wetlands, including Heron Landing Community Park, Sandpiper Park, and Argonaut Park. Residents enjoy hiking and biking the various trails or swimming and playing in the clubhouse’s three pools and gymnasium. Two elementary schools exist within the neighborhood. For errands and shopping, residents have the famous Dutch Bros and [Raley’s grocery](https://www.raleys.com/stores/raleys-sunrise-rancho-cordova-california/) right there or Sprouts Farmers Market less than 10 minutes away. Most of your commercial shopping will be done about 15 minutes northwest on Folsom Boulevard.


DINKs/Families

Anatolia Village

Coloma Estates sits north of 50 just off of Coloma Road near the [**Sunrise Recreation Area**](http://www.regionalparks.saccounty.net/Parks/Pages/SunriseRecAreasUpperandLower.aspx). 
It is a great neighborhood for first-time home buyers or those looking to downsize. Homes here are both single-family detached and townhouse style. You’ll find 3 bedrooms with one bath and 3 bedrooms with two baths around 1,000 square fit for just under and over $400,000. 

This neighborhood boasts multiple points of access to the American River, making biking, boating and hiking an easily accessible passtime for residents. Not far at all is the [**American River Raft Rentals**](http://www.raftrentals.com/)  where you can rent rafts to go out on the river. 

Some of the nearby schools include Williamson Elementary School (rated B on Niche.com), Riverview STEM Academy (A+ on Niche.com) and The Learning Years Academy preschool. For shopping, there are several groceries and essential stores along Coloma Road plus Folsom Boulevard and its many shops are a short 7 minutes away.


Families/Retirees

Coloma Estates

Canyon at The Ranch is another master-planned community featuring new construction homes. There are single-story and two-story homes available ranging from 1,900 to 2,750 square feet. The largest are five bedrooms with three bathrooms beginning in the lower $600,000s. Interior designs range from Loft to Farmhouse to Classic. 

Residents enjoy proximity to green spaces, preserved wetlands and great amenities . This area is a bit more scant in terms of shopping and essentials. You’ll likely get your groceries a few minutes down the road at [**Raley’s**](https://www.raleys.com/stores/raleys-sunrise-rancho-cordova-california/) or drive a bit farther to Sprouts Farmers Market. Folsom Boulevard with your big box stores is a 15 minute drive away. Schools in the area include two elementary schools in the adjacent neighborhood of Anatolia. 


Families

Canyon at the Ranch

Rancho Cordova

**Lordofjones**
1y ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

Rancho Cordova
I live here in Mather and I personally love it. The city has spent millions cleaning it up, investing into homeowners to clean up/repair their homes and yards. There are some ghetto parts but those are becoming better with the money the city is investing. I have kids and am not sending them to the schools here until they get better but we have the option for Folsom schools so we are doing that. The parks are great with kids, the river is fantastic to walk everyday and the food scene is becoming decent. I like that I’m in between downtown and Folsom so I can shop/ eat in all the places. I personally am a huge fan of living here and really respect what the city is doing.

**fuzzmcmunn**
1y ago
🦉🦉🦉🦉

I grew up in RC near the river. It was fairly safe and I had a great time with good neighbors and nice kids to play with.

We were safe, I could ride my bike and go on walks by myself, we didn’t have break ins or anything. The houses can be kind of small. My parents backs up to the parkway. Many of the same neighbors are still there.

There’s definitely parts of it that looks sketch but it’s not ghetto and I’ve never had problems grocery shopping or anything.

To be fair, I haven’t lived there is 10+ years but when I go home it’s still very similar.

**mynameisdarrylfish**
1y ago
🦉🦉🦉

the north side of rancho is the best kept secret in the county. the river is beautiful, the bike trail is amazing if you run or cycle, and it's very quick to get onto the highway for a 15 minute car commute to downtown (OR to take the light rail, which takes ~30 minutes). i live less than a mile walk from the river and less than a mile walk from the light rail station. people just think it's poor and that the high school "isn't good" -- which usually, in my experience, is not what people are really saying when they say that.

**Pro's and Con's of living in Rancho Cordova California | Good and Bad of Rancho Cordova | Sacramento**

Where the Houses are New New

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.


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Region

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Rancho Cordova, California

Where the Houses are New New

Looklyloo Score: 85