Roanoke has it's pros and cons
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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.
Lauren | Vinton, VA