Moving to Tarboro, NC - slightly OT

[TeaForTulips]

Not exactly on topic here, but somewhat. We live a lovely 30-45 minutes from Disney World right now and got sudden news that we are moving to the Tarboro, NC area for job relocation.

Due to the short notice and lack of knowledge we will be renting. I have tried to contact some people at the company in the area, but get mixed reviews on where to live.

We are willing to commute somewhat, but hoping to keep it to 30 minutes or less. I know Raleigh is 1-1.5 hours away and that is great, but clueless on the more rural areas near Tarboro.

Anyone live in this area that could offer any info on cost of living? Crime? Nice apartments? Etc? Just the two of us- no kids yet, so school district not a concern.

The Internet has not been too helpful, so I thought I would turn to the DIS! Thanks for any help!

 

[bas71873]

I'm not all that familiar with the area, but I'd say be prepared for a culture shock. My brother's college girlfriend is from that area and it's pretty rural. I hope someone comes along that is familiar with that area, but I'd say prepare for a BIG change if you're coming from Orlando - ish.

 

[chris31997]

You are looking at a big change. It is a very rural area. For a while we lived in Havelock(hubby was stationed there) but that was a while ago. I know not very helpful. We lived about 3hrs from Releigh towards the coast.

There is alot to do in the area, visit the visitor thingy and they can let you know what there is in the area. Outbanks, one side of the state and than you can go to the other side and see the mountains.

It is a slower life style. Watch out for the bbq, it is vinager based

 

[HamTown]

There is not much in Tarboro (but it does have Walmart! ). You have two options for a commute. Rocky Mount is the closest small city. It has all the basics you would need.

Greenville is slightly farther. It has a large university and therefore more options for rental housing. Traffic can be a nightmare due to the students but you can work around it depending on where you live.

 

[HM]

My husband's grandparents were in a retirement facility in Tarboro (both passed away a few years back), my FIL/MIL live about 30 minutes away in Plymouth. All the above posters are correct that there really isn't much to Tarboro. I do recall seeing some nice older homes and some areas that aren't so great too. I also recall reading in Our State magazine a while back that the town was really trying to update their image and putting some money into it. If you find something with a short-term lease, I'd take it and then do some work at looking around the area for more permanent houseing and finding if moving outside to somewhere your DH can commute from might be better for you.

You'll be able to take day trips to the Outer Banks easily on Hwy 64 and to Raleigh/Rocky Mount/Greenville when you want to buy things that you can't find in a rural town.

Good luck.

 

[SC Minnie]

Rocky Mount isn't that far away and is a bigger than Tarboro. If I had to move to the area I would look there so not to have a long commute.

 

[Tooth Fairy]

Yep.it will be change!. Very rural and low socioeconomic area....but I think you will meet some really nice folks...keep an open mind and get involved in church or community activities. You might enjoy the slower life style....

 

[Angel16]

North Carolina is very beautiful! The people are so friendly and welcoming, I have driven neighborhoods looking at homes and had strangers working in their yard turn and wave at us in our car. I have family who live through out the state. Up in Burlington, southwest of Raleigh in Lillington, others near Fort Bragg, and outside of Fuquay-Varina. I love North Carolina.

There is a lot of nature in most all of North Carolina. Rolling hills, fantastic beaches (I was brought up spending the winters in Tampa, St. Pete, area so I am pretty picky about beaches) You will not be that far from The Outer Banks which is a wonderful weekend or vacation spot. Heading east and south you will run into the Smoky Mountains. There is a lot of history in this part of the country.

I found a site on the internet on Tarboro and here is the link. It has quite a bit of information and from what I have read crime is very low. Hope this helps you a little. http://www.tarboro-nc.com/

I agree with a pp to get involved in the community, find a church and get to know your neighbors. Join a bowling, softball or some type of sport activity. I would also get in contact a realtor prior to you moving who can help you find a good location for a rental.

Good Luck in your future. Your going to have a new chapter in your lives, how great is that!

Angel16

 

[TeaForTulips]

Thanks for everyones help and input! It has been very helpful and appreciated!