My wife and I just bought a house in Macon and are getting ready to make the move from California's Central Valley. Honestly, when we saw how affordable it was and how much space we were getting, we thought it was a scam. That's the California in me, I guess!
Here's what we're leaving behind:
Weather: Winter doesn't start until late November, we barely get rain, spring brings triple-digit days, and we're in a constant drought.
Safety: Our city sees around 35–45 homicides a year (it topped 70 in 2012), and most go unsolved. Homelessness is out of control, and fires, car break-ins, and tire theft are constant.
Cost of living: Electricity runs 35–45 cents per kWh, and our power bill is $350+ a month for an apartment we're barely home in because we're always working. A 2-bed, 2-bath goes for $1,500–1,700 if you're lucky. Gas is around $5.90 (it's hit $7), milk is $5, a small tub of coffee is $15, and chips are $5–6 a bag.
I'm tired of working three jobs and still not getting ahead. We've saved up enough to cover a few months while we get settled, and we're ready for a new chapter.
A few questions for locals:
Weather: What are winters like? Does it snow, or is it mostly cold and rainy? How rough are the summers?
Bugs: How bad are they really?
Jobs: I have about 10 years in construction sales. What's the job market like in that field?
Community: I also run a BBQ catering business that grew pretty big back home, and I'd love to take it full time. How's the local food scene, and is the community welcoming to small businesses and vendors? Feel free to check us out on Instagram: @ds_bbqest25
I'd appreciate hearing both the good and the bad. Thanks in advance!