Good question. I am interested in the answer here, too. I actually LOVE this area, but tend to never admit that to strangers (when traveling out of town.) Sorry, but the fewer people here, the more charming to me.

Austin, TX was a great place to live 25 years ago. It is still nice, but not like it was before the population doubled. Anyone remember the Triangle BEFORE I-40? ahhh...Lovely! I tell everyone who will listen that this is NOT the best place to come to work, play, or live. I'd rather work, play and live with no more population here than we have. Those of you not Carolinians?--don't join us, please, and find buzz elsewhere.

We came here because of my husband's job, not because of a study. But we came back...after a 2-year stint in Florida for another job...because we knew firsthand what a wonderful place this was. When we were in Florida and people asked where we were from, my husband would answer, "Mayberry!"

I fear our little Fuquay turning into Cary...not that there's anything wrong with Cary...some of my best friends live in Cary. I just want to preserve the small-town flavor of this wonderful town.

We moved here for my husband's job, too and love it, except for the ticks. We're in Carrboro and like that we can ride our bikes all over town.

A1Mama: I moved here from Austin. We had such a good time there. I'm headed back this weekend for a friend's wedding and I can't wait. Especially since I'm going solo! My first solo trip in a long, long time.

A1Mama, I totally understand. And like Dineer526 says, she now knows the difference, can appreciate it. Natalie can see the similarities I am sure. We are fortunate and love it... shhhhh. ;)
Warmly,

Carolina Mama

Natalie-enjoy loveable Austin! I was there two weekends ago to visit my sister who lives there. Solo trips are nice. Love my family, but love my space too! Ticks are the worst this year ever. I've never seen them so abundant. Disgusting. Chiggers top ticks for me though in terms of the ultimate downfall of this area. Ever hear Calvin Trillin's comedy routine on chiggers? pretty funny. The cure for chiggers he says, is amputation.

I wouldn't think twice before moving to Raleigh, it's indeed a gorgeous city and knowing that I have a job, a good school for my kids plus playing options matter a lot. We are not financially stable yet but I will definitely consider this option, you gave me a serious thing to think about. Still I should wait an year or two, we just moved last year here in Dallas and I want to give my kids a sense of stability. If any of you plan the big move, Dallas movers offered me absolutely great support.