Scottsdale is still a snowbird haven for wealthy retirees who like to play golf, but tons of young people are moving there (some even following their retiree parents). While the classic, country club conservatism persists, it’s a practical conservatism. People don't care what their neighbors do in their bedroom, they care about how they keep up their property and how it affects their own property values. Still, the young people think they’ve found a hidden gem. Many more people are moving into Scottsdale than moving out. The fact that It’s extremely family-friendly with good schools and becoming a hotbed for IT jobs isn’t hurting.

The summer is scorching. Like, unlivable hot. Like don’t go outside or you might die, hot. 120 degrees is not uncommon. AZ is the skin cancer capital of the world. The wealthy people (of which there are many) leave and the born-and-bred people are used to the survival workarounds (save up for summer A/C, pools, early morning/late night grocery shopping, windshield shades, carry sunscreen at all times and getaways to Flagstaff and Prescott.)

Old Town (or South Scottsdale) is where the fun is with plenty of local spots. Best of all, it has kept the old-fashioned ambiance with narrow streets, small storefronts and quaint boutiques. It has plenty of entertainment and nightlife but the authenticity has been retained. They don’t cater to chain restaurants for example.

Here's a review from a recent transplant who lives in Old Town: 
*Ah I moved here 60 days ago and love it. Cost of living is significantly cheaper (one bedroom $1800 or less with all the bells and whistles in a great area). I can’t speak to summers yet. I’ve met more people here in 2 months than 8 years in Seattle. People are open and friendly. So are all the bars and restaurants.*

LookyLOO Review of Scottsdale

North Scottsdale (newer construction) is more conservative than South Scottsdale (Old Town). South Scottsdale is more liberal, more LGBTQ friendly and more vibrant (and it’s closer to the airport) but even so, the demographics are 30+. The twenty-somethings are in Tempe (Mill Avenue.)

Many people believe Scottsdale is overpriced and Phoenix is a better way to go. Scottsdale has cultivated a certain pristine vibe that plays well with a snobbier mentality. Probably why the younger folks stick around Tempe, West Mesa or Gilbert (which are in Phoenix btw.) They think Scottsdale is a luxury shopping/golfing destination and that it is a predominately white, upper-middle-class exurb with lots of massive shopping centers that are only accessible by car. Not exactly the Gen Z way of life. 

Aside from all of Arizona being a haven of mid century modern architecture, many of the upmarket homes in Scottsdale are contemporary (Spanish/Mediterranean/Pueblo/Ranch.) Some, smaller, older homes can be found closer to Old Town and the rental market is relatively reasonable.


Lifestyle 

Home prices aren’t low (and they’re on the way up) but if you’re coming from a big city and you have a game plan for the summer heat, you might be able to snuggle in somewhere in a much bigger home, get your kids tucked into a good school, enjoy the winters and maybe even move in near your babysitting parents.


Home Prices (by comparison)

Why You Should Move Here Now?

**Comfortable-Ad2608**
8mo ago
🦉🦉🦉

I have lived in Arizona (mostly Phoenix) for 26 years and Scottsdale for 4 of them. Scottsdale is by far the best place to live in the valley. Overall a good city to live in and just depends on your tastes if you will enjoy it.

Pros:

Nice weather November-May. October and June can be mild some years.

Consistently sunny almost year around.

Clean city and generally very safe.

Many hiking trails in close proximity.

If you like to golf then you’re probably in one of the best cities for it.

A green belt that goes about 11 miles throughout Scottsdale.

Lots of newer restaurants, less chains than other parts of the valley.

Roads are grid system so very easy to drive around.

Minimal weather events, we do get monsoons in the summer but nothing catastrophic.

Overall healthy active city. There are many gyms and people with similar athletic interests.

Close roadtrip distance to southern California, Las Vegas, southern Utah and parts of Colorado. Northern Arizona has 4 seasons and is only a couple hours from Phoenix.

Cons:

Hot weather June-October (very hot July-September). Probably the worst con and can be a dealbreaker. If you have access to a pool then that can help a lot. People say getting out earlier is fine but I personally think it’s too hot all hours of the day.

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

Summer (it's more than 3 months)

Reviews of Scottsdale from Locals

**The Good, the Bad and The Ugly**

Scottsdale is still a snowbird haven for wealthy retirees who like to play golf but tons of young people are moving there (some even following their retiree parents there). While the classic, country club conservatism persists, it’s a practical conservatism. People don't care what their neighbors do in their bedroom, they care about how they keep up their property and how it affects their own property values. Still, the young people think they’ve found a hidden gem. Many more people are moving into Scottsdale than moving out. The fact that It’s extremely family-friendly with good schools and becoming a hotbed for IT jobs isn’t hurting.

**The Best Thing About Scottsdale?** 

Old Town (or South Scottsdale) is where the fun is with plenty of local spots. Best of all, it has  kept the old-fashioned ambiance with narrow streets, small storefronts and quaint boutiques. It has plenty of entertainment and nightlife but the authenticity has been retained. They don’t cater to chain restaurants for example.

**The Worst Thing About Scottsdale** 

The summer is scorching. Like unlivable hot. Like don’t go outside or you might die, hot. 120 degrees is not uncommon. AZ is the skin cancer capital of the world. The wealthy people (of which there are many) leave and the born-and-bred people are used to the survival workarounds (save up for summer A/C, pools, early morning/late night grocery shopping, windshield shades, carry sunscreen at all times and getaways to Flagstaff and Prescott.)

**How You Living?** 

North Scottsdale (newer construction) is more conservative than South Scottsdale (Old Town). South Scottsdale is more liberal, more LGBTQ friendly and more vibrant (and it’s closer to the airport) but even so, the demographics are 30+. The twenty-somethings are in Tempe (Mill Avenue.)

Many people believe Scottsdale is overpriced and Phoenix is a better way to go. Scottsdale has cultivated a certain pristine vibe that plays well with a snobbier mentality. Probably why the younger folks stick around Tempe, West Mesa or Gilbert (which are in Phoenix btw.) They think Scottsdale is a luxury shopping/golfing destination and that it is a predominately white, upper-middle-class exurb with lots of massive shopping centers that are only accessible by car. Not exactly the Gen Z way of life. 

Aside from all of Arizona being a haven of mid century modern architecture, many of the upmarket homes in Scottsdale are contemporary (Spanish/Mediterranean/Pueblo/Ranch.) Some, smaller, older homes can be found closer to Old Town and the rental market is relatively reasonable.

**Why You Should Move Here Now?** 

Home prices aren’t low (and they’re on the way up) but if you’re coming from a big city and you have a gameplan for the summer heat, you might be able to snuggle in somewhere in a much bigger home, get your kids tucked into a good school, enjoy the winters and maybe even move in near your babysitting parents.


Old Town Scottsdale is the center of entertainment in the city and if you want a walk to nightlife this is your best bet. It’s close to Arizona State and Mill Avenue, a dense shopping, restaurant and bar district, and also Scottsdale Stadium and the Fashion Square. There’s also plenty of condo and apartment options here as well. 
- Old Town
- Downtown


Young Professionals

Downtown

While Scottsdale doesn’t have a single neighborhood that attracts the majority of LGBTQ+ community the Old Town area is the most popular. It is the entertainment center of the city and also houses the majority of the arts scene with plenty of galleries and studios for those looking for culture. 
- Old Town


LGBTQ+

Old Town

McCormick Ranch is one of the most popular neighborhoods for families in Scottsdale. It has a number of lakes and mountain views for an outdoor lifestyle, but also amazing desert-style and mid-century modern homes inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. The area also has great shopping, health care, restaurants and parks. Finally, for those who love the baseball scene in Scottsdale, the training spot for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies borders McCormick Ranch.
- McCormick Ranch
- North Scottsdale
- Gainey Ranch


Families

McCormick Ranch

Scottsdale, and the Phoenix area in general, is the center of retirement for the western United States. Communities like McCormick Ranch and Grayhawk are ideal neighborhoods to start your search. Low crime rates, beautiful homes, and proximity to outdoor options and health care make them ideal for the active retiree who isn’t ready for an exclusively 55+ community. If you are looking for an exclusively 55+ retirement community, then Scottsdale and the Phoenix area is your place. Check out [Revel Scottsdale](https://revelcommunities.com/communities/scottsdale/) if luxury is your thing. Amazing amenities, stunning gardens, and wellness services make it fun and protected if that’s what you’re looking for. 
- Grayhawk
- McCormick Ranch
- Revel Scottsdale


Retirees

Grayhawk

Scottsdale

**MrITRecruiter**
7mo ago
🦉🦉🦉

I was made for this question. I lived in Scottsdale for 5 years before moving to Upstate NY for 2 years and now I'm moving back at the end of the month lol

Any helpful tips for living in Scottsdale as a renter with a dog? Keep your dog leashed. Always have plenty of water. Keep them off the pavement during the summer day/night. If you're in N Scottsdale, watch for snakes.

Are scorpions a thing? Yes, but I haven't had any issues at any of the apartments I've lived at.

Is it cycling friendly? Walkable? Old town, friendly to both. Green belt is a great cycling area. N Scottsdale is cycling friendly, but not walkable. Not a cyclist, but I saw people all the time.

Places to avoid? Best YP neighborhood? Every part of Scottsdale is relatively nice, I haven't experienced or heard anything horrific. Be aware of road rage. Try to stay east of the 51 for the most part.

Will my mom be proud of me? Always ;)

Decent grocery stores? Typical, sprouts or whole foods. Can never beat Costco. Fry's, Safeway and Albertsons are the generic options.

Best place to buy a car? Hard to say now, I bought mine 5 years ago from a dealership. I'd recommend trying FB marketplace first. But learn from a recent mistake, don't always trust a CarFax. Run a report through an approved national database.

Am I gonna need a sunblock routine? I'd say so. It's good practice wherever you live anyways.

Does dry heat require as much gold bond for my thighs as the humidity on the east coast does? I never had problems with this until I moved to NY. Now I have gold bond everywhere I go. Shouldn't need it as much.

**IndependentNovel372**
9mo ago
🦉🦉🦉

Pros: the weather is glorious eight months out of the year and there are a plethora of hiking trails in N. Scottsdale. It's where I was born and raised and wouldn't have had it any other way.

Cons: it's EXPENSIVE. Not as pricey as NYC, but very expensive to live there. Also, we have this thing called summer and it's not for the weak-minded. Does it compare to August/Sept humidity in TX, hell no. Is it still uncomfortable? Oh yeah.

**Comfortable-Ad2608**
8mo ago
🦉🦉🦉

I have lived in Arizona (mostly Phoenix) for 26 years and Scottsdale for 4 of them. Scottsdale is by far the best place to live in the valley. Overall a good city to live in and just depends on your tastes if you will enjoy it.

Pros:

Nice weather November-May. October and June can be mild some years.

Consistently sunny almost year around.

Clean city and generally very safe.

Many hiking trails in close proximity.

If you like to golf then you’re probably in one of the best cities for it.

A green belt that goes about 11 miles throughout Scottsdale.

Lots of newer restaurants, less chains than other parts of the valley.

Roads are grid system so very easy to drive around.

Minimal weather events, we do get monsoons in the summer but nothing catastrophic.

Overall healthy active city. There are many gyms and people with similar athletic interests.

Close roadtrip distance to southern California, Las Vegas, southern Utah and parts of Colorado. Northern Arizona has 4 seasons and is only a couple hours from Phoenix.

Cons:

Hot weather June-October (very hot July-September). Probably the worst con and can be a dealbreaker. If you have access to a pool then that can help a lot. People say getting out earlier is fine but I personally think it’s too hot all hours of the day.

**Deere33**
9mo ago
🦉🦉🦉

Given your young age, I would recommend looking at North Scottsdale. I’m in my upper 30s in Old Town and I feel too old for the area. AZ is a different beast and a great place for introverts. I’ve realized that my friends that like it here the most are my introverted friends that like their space and don’t do much outside of their home. That’s not to say that it’s not an amazing place to go out and socialize and meet people, but without the alcohol and partying, people are pretty cold here. I love it here, but we just also have to reframe it as it is very different from the midwest where I grew up where I was taught trust until given a reason not to. In AZ, it is the opposite—don’t trust until you give me a reason to. Also, with that being said, Phoenix is a lot larger than where I grew up in the midwest, but I have also lived in DT Denver and DT San San Francisco and haven’t experienced the level of coldness like I’ve experienced in the Phoenix Metro.

In Phoenix, there’s no one season of amazing weather. In the winter, it’s less cold than other parts of the country, but still cold. You really have to time it right in the winter as you’ll probably be able to go out midday in the winter and do a hike or something—if you’re not working or on the weekends—or in the summer before the asscrack of dawn. In the midwest and Colorado, summer and part of spring and part of fall are amazing, so there’s a lot more longer stretches of pleasant weather.

Still, the desert and the landscape are amazing and beautiful and I wake up looking at palm trees thinking I’m on vacation—until I get in my car and realize I’m going to work. Lol

**Pros and Cons of Living in Scottsdale Arizona**

Smaller, Cheaper, Warmer

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

Scottsdale, Arizona

Smaller, Cheaper, Warmer

Looklyloo Score: 94