|
| Weather - 3/31/2013
You experience all the seasons. The fall is beautiful when the leaves turn. Spring is beautiful when the flowers and trees start to bloom. Summer is ok. Winter we haven't gotten a lot of snow the last couple of years.[read more...]
|
|
| greener and outdoorsy - 8/30/2012
roanokes an up and coming "green" city with farmers markets, co-ops an exploding downtown gentrification, good schools, a wifi city ,skyline, music,etc.it can and will be the center for outdoor living for sw. va. on par witrh asheville and fayetteville but needs some marketing savvy and money infusion- can easily best asheville with less pretentiousness, less cost of living, prettier surroundings, superior downtown, etc...but its not there yet[read more...]
|
|
| Alergie central - 8/19/2012
Pretty city undergoing a change for the best but if you have allergies don't move here the problems are many[read more...]
|
|
| cost of living list for every US state - 7/18/2012
Hello,
I was wondering how can I have a cost of living list for all US states, for the sake of my dissertation.
Best,
Anisa[read more...]
|
|
| SW County 24018 and Roanoke in General - 3/3/2012
From my perspective,Sperling is way off base about the cost of living in Roanoke zip code 24018. This zip is in the county, and the area is generally referred to as South West County. It is one of the nicest areas in all of Roanoke. From 2003 until just recently, I lived In SW County. In particular, I lived in a beautiful 2300 sq ft townhouse located in an area called Stone Henge.
In my experience it was , as is all of SW County, a very safe place to live. Over the years, I have been out of town for months at a time and come home to a secured and intact home every time. It is a perfect place for people who work long hours, are on the go, travel a lot, enjoy privacy, and like the serenity of such living including being free from the hassles of exterior maintenance and grounds care.
Electric and telecommunications cable lines are buried in much of SW County. Electric power is supplied by AEP and the rates are lower than in many places including nearby counties. County real estate tax assessments have gone down a little, around 1.4%. On an assessed value of approximately $183,000, the taxes came to under $2000 a year.
So, again, compared to many other areas, I am unclear as to how Sperling came up with its calculations.
Other information:
South West County has a lot going for it including accessibility to upscale shops, banks, accountants, doctors, dentists, hospitals, shopping, home improvement, restaurants, and entertainment. The schools are highly rated and aside from the public school system, there are private schools.
SW County recently opened a new “hi-tech” library. The libraries are county run and reciprocate across the various locations.
Hollins University, Roanoke College, National College, Tech Schools, and Western Virginia Community Collage are all easily accessible. Virginia Tech is about 45 minutes away.
Alternatively, Roanoke and surrounds is very provincial in its thinking, and lacks sophistication. Strange as it is, there is open prejudice against “Yankees”, and Jews.
You may find most attorneys incompetent, or even in cahoots with the opposing team.
Underemployment is rampant especially for women and more so those with degrees and leadership experience. Unemployment statistics have varied very little since 1998. The average has been 4-5 % .
Roanoke is deep- south “Christian” for the most part. There are a few metaphysical, Buddhist, and other types of spiritual groups in the area.
If you enjoy group activities, there are many different types available and that includes for children as well as adults. Traveling from SW County via the I-85/220 is easily accessible.
Roanoke has a fantastic real estate investing group which meets each Tuesday evening at El Rodeo on Williamson Road. Newcomers are always welcome and you will learn a lot.
All in all, SW Roanoke County is a good place to be and not off the charts even for a single person.
[read more...]
|
|
| Quality of LIfe. - 1/22/2012
I dont' really have a review as much as a request, for current info on Roanoke and the region. I don't live in Roanoke but am thinking of retirment in the area. The most recent review is several years old now. Is it bascially a current review of Roanoke at present, or has the area changed very much. I like this area on the few short visits I have made to the area, but I have not been there in at least 5 years now.
I Just wonder how Roanoke is doing in 2012. I'm especially interested in, is it still attracting people from other areas. Or has that slowed down? Are businesses coming and going as in much of the country? So much so that it has had a severe impact on the economy of the Roanoke area. I am very impressed with the Medical facilities offered in this city as well as its natural beauty. I just wonder why it has never grown more considering it offers much for its size. Thanks [read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke in General - 12/31/2009
Title: Bottom Line
PW: highestnbest
Your data on Roanoke VA is misleading for someone just seeking information using Roanoke as their criteria.
An average price of $129,000 for a house is ludicrous unless you are purchasing in a "C" or “D" neighborhood in and around the City of Roanoke. Homes in those areas are generally between $90,000-$150,000, need work, and are generally what is selling according to realtors and the postings in the Roanoke Times newspaper. Many of those are also purchased by investors.
The lower range for a home in the county is a median between $200,000 on up to just under $300,000, depending upon the area and other factors. Nothing is moving. Appraisers are playing games and even with low-balling values, an insult to the homeowner and their invested capital, it is not working because people are not able to qualify for mortgages.
Appreciation in SW County Roanoke is generally 6% per year.
At the other end of the spectrum, we are looking at some sales upwards of $350,000.
The area has experienced an influx of elderly and the town fathers are bent on making a Roanoke a retirement mecca with Carilion health system leading the way. Eldercare services, including a newly issued self-funded Medicare supplemental plan, are the emphasis for Carilion medical. However, they, too have suffered because physicians have left due to the institution’s demands and practices.
The rate of unemployment generally hangs around 4% which is misleading because of there is no job market – as explained to me, people who have jobs are not losing and new jobs are not being created. The way I understand it, according to an executive and a director/consultant at the VEC, professionals have a hard time in Roanoke unless they are they are "connected" or "medical". In fact, as professionals who attended sessions at the VEC, we were told: “If you want a job – move, there are no jobs here.” Well, easier said than done for most of us who invested in and expected a viable way of life here. It has impoverished many of us.
Job vacancies that do occur are filled by relatives, and/or friends of current staff, it seems. Most available jobs are in the $7.50 - $10 range, offer no benefits. While we understand this is happening in many places due to erroneous thinking and greed by powers who are, this is the status quo for Roanoke.
As with many places, just bring lots of money and have no need to work and you will be all right.
Roanoke is also "Bible Belt" and the words "church" and "Jesus" are integral to local means of communicating and quite a cultural shock for many of us who are accustomed to more sophistication.
Religion really is personal. Proselytizing is rampant, as is witnessing, which many of us find repulsive.
Roanoke needs to be attracting and building a solid business community where opportunities for professionals of all ages are welcomed.
Virginia has a state income tax. Roanoke County real estate taxes are about $1.09 per $100 of assessed valuation or over $2000 for a $200,000 home. Electric rates are reasonable. Schools in SW County and Salem and few other areas are excellent. Education is good in most places today, though.
Roanoke, as one commenter has alluded to, offers little and is close to nowhere. Airfare is generally very high causing people to travel 2 - 3+ hours to find better prices and connections.
While the weather can be sunny, it is hot and humid from about May - October; temperatures may soar to 110 in the summer; and the rest of the time it is rainy, wet, damp, cold and/or windy.
If you "love" the mountains, a boring lifestyle, being unemployed, are financially fixed, are very staid, think old, and believe it is a good place to raise children, it is apparently meeting those needs.
For motivated single adults of all ages, it seems agreed this is not the place to be. It seems, too, even “connected” imports leave soon after coming here, and young people seek more interesting environments.
Being in Roanoke for over six years has proven to be an unfulfilling and financially devastating experience. Trying to get out, especially in light of having “invested” in a home in an excellent area,(24018),is proving to be quite a challenge.
There are exceptions to everything, of course, everyone is different, and each has an opinion. Mine is, to each his own.
[read more...]
|
|
| This place needs to be kept a secret as long as po - 5/6/2009
We moved here about 3 years ago and absolutely love it. We try not to promote it too much because we're afraid what will happen if the secret gets out. There is an art scene here that is incredible and greenways that criss-cross the city. If you love mountains and city combined, this is the place. Great bar/restaurants downtown as well - much like you would find in a major metro.[read more...]
|
|
| roanoke aka nowhere - 4/15/2009
there is nothing to do here- if you dont mind being bored out of your mind the mountain views are lovely[read more...]
|
|
| Quality of Life - 9/27/2008
The mountains,forests and lake is only a short drive away.
Affordable housings with good amenities and healthcare facilities[read more...]
|
|
| Allergies? - 8/19/2008
I am considering moving to the Roanoke area from the foothills of Colorado. I was just wondering why there have been claims of bad allergies there. Is it a pollen thing, due to the trees, mtns...? I was just wondering how it would be in comparison to the pine pollen season here. I have asthma, so I was just wondering if anyone had more information/ experience...?
Thanks.[read more...]
|
|
| Lived here 8 years - 7/12/2008
I posted about Roanoke on 1/15/07 and I'd like to update. (Side note: I actually live in Vinton, VA - to the east of Roanoke City- in Roanoke County.)
My pros and cons list still stands with the exception of my position on things to do for younger people. Roanoke has really made an effort to keep existing and attract new young people to the Valley.
Downtown Roanoke has begun an evolution and is currently in the process of updating. A few companies have renovated old warehouses and distribution centers into modern lofts (while keeping some details of the old city which is a nice tribute). Shopping is placed at street level to provide a walkable living space.
I've definitely seen a more progressive approach to developing a plan for sustainable living.
The last thing I would like to share with anyone contemplating a move to the Roanoke Valley is the local government's plan through 2020. Officials have released the following plans for Roanoke:
http://www.roanokeva.gov/vision/index.html[read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke is great for retirees! - 7/11/2008
Roanoke is probably the most overlooked area in the U.S. by the national media for quality of life. MONEY magazine named it the top place to retire a few years ago but since then this region is overhadowed by nearby cities of Charlottesville and Asheville. The area would like more young professionals to settle here but with the large elderly population it is better geared for people who would traditionally move to Florida after a successful career.
Downtown is quite vibrant with many diverse restaurants, entertainment and cultural offerings. There is an opera, symphony, perfoming arts center, civic center, transportation rail museum, zoo, $66m new art museum, two major shopping malls within 10 miles of each other, major lake with sandy beach and cabin, riverboat dining, whitewater rafting, tubing, Va Tech football games, mountain hiking and camping on the Blue Ridge Pkwy, romantic dining at the Peaks of Otter Lodge, hot water baths at Hot Springs' The Homestead which offers winter snow skiing/ice skating, etc etc. There is much to explore within a 50 mile radius of Roanoke. I believe the locals know what a "diamond in the rough" it is so therefore its still the best kept secret in the U.S.[read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke climate - 6/8/2008
Spectacular spring and fall. Hot humid summers and wet cold winters.[read more...]
|
|
| Not much to do for young people - 7/19/2007
I've lived here 25 years and little has changed for the better. I am contemplating a move due to the lack of cultural and recreational activities, a dwindling education system, and an increase in crime. Although the cost of living is very reasonable the quality of living could be improved. Ready for a change..............[read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke Valley Politics - 7/8/2007
Within the borders of Roanoke County are two cities, and, therefore, three competing and equal governments. For that reason, Roanoke has not seen the growth that some of its regional neighbors have experienced. Salem is a city that retains its small town atmosphere and sense of community. Roanoke is a larger, more diverse city that has seen several corporate headquarters come and go. It is now on its way to becoming a large regional medical center with the Carilion Clinic. Roanoke County is a suburb to both cities and has several light manufacturers, including ITT Night Vision. The result is a region with a variety of lifestyles ranging from semi-rural to city condo living. The urban center is largely Democratic, and the small town neighborhoods are Republican. The cost of living is relatively low, the average age tends to be older than the national average and salaries are relatively low. Nearby are the recreational areas of Smith Mountain and Claytor lakes, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Virginia Tech is the nearby large internationally known university and the area is served by the major north-south Interstate 81. It is a community for medical professionals, retirees, and college students.[read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke has it's pros and cons - 1/15/2007
I have lived in Roanoke for 6.5 years. I grew up in Northern VA (about 20 min. outside of D.C.) and moved here with my husband (he grew up here).
Pros:
1. Wonderful views - Blue Ridge Mountains
2. Shopping is convenient
3. Low to Moderate traffic (depending on the area and what time)
4. Get to enjoy all four seasons
5. Low to Moderate cost of living
6. Housing is not expensive
Cons:
1. White collar jobs are slim (unless you are in the medical field).
2. Good ol'Boy mentality still exists.
3. Racists are abound.
4. If you are younger, you need to drive a while to find "culture" unless your idea of a good time is sitting around in a bar.
5. Crime rates aren't great (depends on the area of Roanoke - middle income homes are the ones targeted most). I had my truck broken into 6 months after moving here. Fun.
FAQ:
1. Southwest County is where all the rich people live. Lots of "old money".
2. Stay away from the Williamson Road area. Kids drag race there and crime is high.
3. Salem is another good place to live (adjacent to Roanoke on it's western side). Good schools.
4. Downtown Roanoke is a good place to get what little culture is here. Farmers Market, good upscale restaurants, little boutiques, etc.[read more...]
|
|
| Roanoke is nice! - 1/13/2007
Originally from the Midwest, moved to Roanoke VA several years ago. Roanoke winters are not bad, plenty of sunshine year round, and actually less humidity here in the mountains compared to where I was prior in the Midwest up by the Great Lakes. Scenery abounds here in Roanoke, mountains, trails, waterfalls, recreational lakes nearby, awesome flowers and color during spring and fall. Despite what others have posted, I have no real allergy problems here in Roanoke, in fact my allergies were worse up in the Midwest. Roanoke or near Roanoke is a smart choice for living. Nearby Blacksburg is booming, but a little smaller. Smith Mountain Lake is also booming.[read more...]
|
|
| Caution before moving to Roanoke - 12/24/2006
My wife and I have lived in the Roanoke area about a year now and we love it. If you like living in a tranquil, scenic setting this might be the place for you... but unless you're retiring here, get a job first! If you're a white collar worker, it really is tough to get a job in this blue collar town (unless you're an RN, PT, OT, etc). Be forwarned, there is a bit of the "good 'ol boy" mentality in this area.
Also, nobody seems to talk about this in any of the Roanoke forums, but if you have allergy problems, this place is the pits. It's a well known fact among the locals this is one of the worst places in the country for allergies. If this is a problem for you, I don't recommend moving here... your Zyrtec, Flonase, or whatever will not help you as much as you think.
Also, because of the mountains and all the traffic on I81, you get alot of smog in the summer time. But hey, no place is perfect![read more...]
|
|
| Relocating to Roanoke - 10/10/2006
I went to college in Roanoke (2002-2004) for 2 years and now that I'm graduating this December, I am thinking about relocating to Roanoke within a year or so from the Fairfax County\Northern Virginia area. It is much too expensive to live in Fairfax County, is Roanoke a good choice for relocation? It has been almost 3 years since I last was in the area, the people were nice for the most part from what I remember but I was hoping for some feedback.[read more...]
|
