Queen City
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2/23/2008
Charlotte is definitely one of the more rapidly growing cities in the U.S. I feel that some of the attention is warranted, but there are some downsides to the Queen City.
Charlotte has yet to really develop a true identity as a city and currently lacks in the diversity department. There are some hidden gems such as a restaurants and shops, but you really have to dig or just me people. The downtown area (uptown) is also quickly expanding but significantly lacks in the arts at this point. Being the second largest banking city in the U.S tends to rub off with Uptown Charlotte giving off a very white-collar appearance.
All is not bad in Charlotte, especially in terms of cost of living and weather. Charlotte is a very moderately priced place to live and has many days of sunshine, which comes with living in the southeast. The humidity can be a bit harsh in the summer, but I'd much rather that than cold, smog ladened skies of our neighboring cities to the north.
In closing, Charlotte is to a large degree what you make it and you can have a good time with a little research and a nice group of friends. Its not going to wow you with its diversity or breathtaking beauty, but it can make up for its shortfalls in the areas of cost of living and sunshine.
Kario | Charlotte, NC