Where to Live

Where do young people like to live when they get to the city? When it comes to choosing a place to live, convenience to grocery stores, popular amenities, highways and interstates, and other areas of interest are key. For recent college graduates and young people the question of where to live not only concerns the kind of region they want to live in, but the kind of neighborhood as well. They want other young people and they want a fun environment. The places that becomes a popular neighborhood for young people is Downtown and neighborhoods surrounding the downtown. While there are numerous apartment complexes, duplexes, and homes for rent in the region, the most likely living spaces that will be attractive to young unmarried adults will be places closer to the city's downtown. Downtown living is popular because there are numerous popular amenities within walking distance: work, restaurants, a market, concert halls and venues, gyms, festivals, etc. Finding a place in downtown, however, might be difficult because apartments are expensive or occupied. Downtown living has been taking off big time in Roanoke within the past decade. But, if you can't find a place to live downtown, the next best option might be in a nearby community that offers cheap and convenient living.

Places such as Georgetown in D.C. became what they are today because it served the purpose of providing housing for young people trying to be close to the downtown area. The Fan in Richmond is now also serving that purpose for young professionals looking for a cool, convenient place to live. I must admit that most young people move to place or neighborhood where other young people live. But the way that place became a popular young person living space is due to its convenience to the downtown area and other amenities. In my opinion (and I am sure others think this as well), Old Southwest is Roanoke's potential Fan or Georgetown. Old homes that have become affordable, offering duplexes and homes that have been remodeled into apartments. Lamedigs.com offers several living spaces in the Old Southwest area. While downtown is continuing its efforts to provide living, I believe that Old Southwest certainly has the potential to be a fun neighborhood for recent college graduates looking for a place to live. That's where I'll be looking for a place.