Smartbox of Raleigh: Portable Storage and Moving
Moving to a new city requires a lot of consideration and planning. If you're thinking of relocating to Raleigh, North Carolina, you will want to read up on the city so that you'll know exactly what to expect. Check out this comprehensive guide to Raleigh to determine if it's the right relocation destination for you.
Overview of Raleigh
Located in central North Carolina, Raleigh is the capital city of the state and the seat of Wake County. It's nicknamed the “City of Oaks” because of its many oak trees. Currently, it has a total area of 144.8 square miles and a population of about 470,000, making it the second largest city in North Carolina.
Raleigh was chosen as the state capital in 1788 because its inland location made it invulnerable to attacks from the coast. The city didn't see any significant battle during the American Civil War, but it fell to the Union shortly before the end of the war. In the following years, it experienced economic hardships partly because of its over-reliance on agriculture. The construction of the Research Triangle Park in 1959 created tens of thousands of jobs in the fields of science and technology, turning Raleigh into one of the fastest-growing cities in the country by the early 21st century.
Living in Raleigh
You'll find it very easy to settle into Raleigh because most of the locals are friendly and helpful towards strangers, thanks to the strong sense of community in the city. Additionally, you'll be able to make new friends quickly as there are plenty of social opportunities throughout the city.
With its excellent education system and virtually endless family-friendly activities, Raleigh is a great place to raise a family. It also has numerous green spaces, health-centric food stores and restaurants, and fitness facilities to promote healthy living. For cultural enrichment, you can visit the city's many museums and art galleries or attend concerts and music festivals that take place throughout the year.
The cost of living in Raleigh is slightly lower than the national average. However, home prices have been rising significantly in recent years due to an increase in the number of new residents. While housing costs are expected to keep rising, the city's relatively low property taxes make it easier for people to own a home there than in other major cities.
Education in Raleigh
Based on the percentage of residents holding college degrees, Raleigh is one of the most educated cities in the United States. This is mainly because of the presence of many universities and colleges in and around the city. Raleigh has two public colleges, seven private colleges, and three non-profit colleges. Public schools in the city belong to the Wake County Public School System, which is often praised for its innovative efforts to provide high-quality and economical education.
Best Restaurants in Raleigh
Raleigh has a wide array of culinary offerings to satisfy every palate. Whether you're looking for home-cooked food or an exquisite meal in an elegant restaurant, you'll be spoiled for choices. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include:
1.Poole's
Helmed by James Beard award-winner Ashley Christensen, Poole's serves unique, Southern-inspired classics made with fresh, local ingredients. Examples of dishes you'll see on the restaurant's chalkboard menu include venison meatloaf, duck hearts with sherry and bacon, and Russian tea-brimmed pork belly.
2. Oakwood Pizza Box
Oakwood Pizza Box is a charming pizzeria that specializes in authentic New York-style pizzas. Its mouthwatering 18-inch pies feature robust crusts that can hold the toppings without getting soggy and a homemade sauce that's both sweet and savory. You can add a wide variety of toppings to your pizza, including sausage, bacon, meatballs, cremini mushrooms, olives, and peppers.
3. Mami Nora's Rotisserie Chicken
While fried chicken is a staple in Raleigh, many locals find Mami Nora's tender and juicy rotisserie chicken just as finger-licking good. The rotisserie chicken is served with a side of plantains and comes in three sizes: quarter, half, and whole.
Best Neighborhoods in Raleigh
As one of the largest cities in North Carolina, Raleigh consists of many neighborhoods. These neighborhoods may vary greatly in terms of standard of living, amenities, and personality. The following are some great neighborhoods in the area.
1. Oakwood
Situated east of the downtown area, Oakwood Historic District is the only 19th-century neighborhood in Raleigh that has remained intact over the years. It's a beautiful area with plenty of oak trees and diverse architectural styles that range from Queen Anne to Classical Revival. Besides being a major tourist attraction, Oakwood is also a preferred residential area for professionals and families. It's just a short walk from great restaurants and bars in downtown Raleigh.
2. Cameron Village
Cameron Village has all the amenities you need within walking distance. This neighborhood is situated west of downtown Raleigh and close to North Carolina State University. It has a wide range of locally owned boutique stores, some of the best restaurants in the city, excellent fitness centers, and a state-of-the-art library. Its shopping area offers stunning views of the city skyline. This vibrant community is home to many young professionals and college students.
3. Boylan Heights
If you want to stay a little farther from the city center, Boylan Heights is a great option. Established in 1907, this charming neighborhood features homes and buildings with Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Dutch Colonial, Craftsman, and modern architectural styles. It also offers plenty of shopping and dining options. It's one of the residential areas in Raleigh with the fastest-growing home values.
Raleigh is a wonderful city with a rich history and culture, strong economy, excellent amenities, and an abundance of recreational activities. It's committed to providing a high quality of life for its residents. Whether you're relocating to Raleigh to accept a job offer, start a new business venture, or experience a new environment, you can rest assured that you'll have a pleasant and fulfilling life there. If you need help moving your stuff, don't hesitate to get a free quote from us.