Greensboro is a city located in Piedmont region of North Carolina and is a vibrant city known for various aspects. It is known for rich history, diverse culture, and a strong sense of community. Greensboro is also home to several institutions of higher education, such as University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) and North Carolina A&T State University, which is one of the nation’s leading historically Black universities. This city also attracts a wide range of international students from different corners of the world. You can see many international students housing in Greensboro, which has both pros and cons. Here, you will learn about the pros and cons of living in Greensboro.
Pros
- Affordable Cost of Living
Greensboro is cheaper in comparison to other cities in the United States. The average house in Greensboro sells cheaper than the national median of $432,849 and apartments cost an average of $1,122.
- Flourishing Arts
If you want exposure to arts, theatres, and music in your life, then also, Greensboro is the perfect place for you. There are multiple museums in the city among which the perfect example is Weatherspoon Art Museum. We can take Hanger 1819 as another example, which provides live music so is a good place for entertainment-loving students. The Carolina Theatre for paramount performing arts’ magnificent experience provides the residents/students with good entertainment performances.
- Demand for Skilled Workers in Job Sectors Such as Healthcare and Education
Today Greensboro’s economy is strengthening and one can highlight such spheres as healthcare and education. Primary sector employers such as Cone Health and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro contribute to the employment and market recognition of the city. It gives a boom to the city’s repute as one of the best college towns in North Carolina.
- Convenient Location of North Carolina
Since Greensboro is located in the center of North Carolina, one can easily travel to other parts of the state. You can visit beaches to the east and mountains to the west within a few minutes by driving. This central location is ideal for a weekend or even a weekday to visit other sites of interest in North Carolina to experience the natural beauty and great small towns of this state.
- Various Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities
Green spaces and outdoor activities are the favorite things to do for international students. Greensboro is known for these things and you can find over 90 miles of trails here along with numerous large parks. Greensboro Arboretum and the Bog Garden are examples of the best green spaces in Greensboro. Greensboro is a fantastic place for those also, who like hiking, biking, or enjoying time outdoors simply.
Cons
- Low Public Transport Options
Greensboro does not have any bus system plus the infrastructure for transportation is not extensive. It is very difficult to navigate the city of Greensboro or the surrounding area efficiently without a car. Major areas are covered by the transit system but there is a shortage for you if you are a daily commuter or you have to go for spontaneous trips.
- Summers Are Hot
In Greensboro, you can see a consistent temperature in the 90s in July and August. It is the time of peak heat so outdoor activities are less enjoyable. You can also feel discomfort due to humidity, especially if you have come from a country with a cooler climate. In that case, keep skin creams with you to cope with the problem of skin allergies.
- Traffic Congestion on Major Highways
The traffic in Greensboro is usually not as severe as there is in the large cities. But, on the major highways, you can find traffic congestion, especially during the rush hours. The major examples in this regard are I-40 and I-85, which go through the city and you can find heavy traffic here during the peak commuting hours. So, your travel time may be extended, especially when you are going outside the city.
- Nightlife Is Limited
Greensboro may not be appealing for those who like a party atmosphere since the nightlife scene is limited here. However, you can find some bars, lounges, and other nightlife places, but these are less compared to cities like Charlotte and Raleigh.
- Limited Retail Shopping Choices
Greensboro offers a few malls and shopping centers, but its retail scene is limited. It lacks the upscale stores found in bigger cities. For high-end shopping, residents often have to travel to Raleigh or Charlotte. This can be inconvenient for those seeking more variety or luxury brands.
Conclusion
Living in Greensboro’s student apartments is good but the city has both pros and cons. It is located in the central location of North Carolina, USA, and has a great demand for skilled workers in different sectors. It has an affordable cost of living so is a perfect city in the USA for students. The city has a flourishing art scene, various green spaces, and outdoor activities.
The major disadvantages are that the city has low transportation options and the major highways have traffic congestion, especially during the peak hours. Summers are hot here so students from cooler areas can face difficulties. Nightlife and retail shopping choices are limited.
But, when we compare the pros and cons, we find that Greensboro is a good city to live in for international students.
