5 Common Complaints about Living in Roanoke, VA.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

What is a common complaint that you have heard about Roanoke?

[@asmrcomet2939]

It’s still sort of segregated. Rich white people live in a handful of areas. Average-income, low-income, and black people get the tougher areas.

[@asmrcomet2939]

R Henry yes that makes sense and is typical. The middle class here has slim pickings tho.

[@evanheaphy6561]

SHOOTINGS, SHOOTINGS, SHOOTINGS! I'm from Fl and the crime here is nothing like I've ever seen. Oh, and the homeless on every single corner.

[@cateharding]

My husband is from SoCal where practically anything you want to do is within an hour's drive. And hs hates the small town thinking, like leaving car doors unlocked in your own driveway.

[@relax9286]

@@40rdmag me too. It sucks you in.

[@browningbelgium2326]

And here we are 2 years later, and nothing's changed out of the 5. I simply think that some people were born to complain. I've never felt unsafe in Roanoke. I just stay away from certain people, places, and spaces. If you can't find a job, you're not looking anywhere.

[@Joeythajanitor]

Roanoke is nice but I’m definitely happy I moved.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Where did you move to?

[@dilanmarquez7.]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Roanoke VA

[@TheLIRRFrenchie...]

As a Roanoke native, I agree.

[@omniken66]

The cost of living is rising here and the average salary remains the same..I've been living here 16 years and I'd say the last 5 years there has been a huge influx of people moving into the area or relocating here...this has driven up prices sharply!

[@johnnysalami27]

Star city of the south, can you blame them?

[@omniken66]

@@johnnysalami27 I don't even consider this to be the South.....Roanoke suffers from an identity crisis!

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I think Carilion is a big factor of people moving here. I agree prices have been going up but I think it is an average inflation compared to the US.

[@jmbozigian]

I have been to Roanoke multiple times and have hardly ever seen homeless. Come to southern california if you want to know what homelessness really looks like

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

There are a lot of cities that have a bigger homeless population.

[@dvferyance]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Any city in California.

[@nickhill8612]

I remember when Day avenue was a bad place. Melrose used to be a nice place. Roanoke is a place for the joggers and runners. There's plenty of marathons downtown and the one to Mill mountain star. I'm an hour away in Natural Bridge and we go to Roanoke often. To hockey games, the concerts downtown. Roanoke has the Burgland center and Salem has the civic center. There's always something going on and there really not far from each other.

[@zachbowyer6305]

I actually miss Roanoke. It’s my hometown. I moved about 30 minutes away in Botetourt. I’d really like to move back to the Hollins area but houses are so expensive now.

[@freddy333ful]

Homelessness problem???? Ha! I'm in LA county....try 30-50 THOUSAND homeless folks.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I don't this the homeless problem is as big as other cities by any means.

[@freddy333ful]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA no problem... I moved from Newport news va in 2016 to LA county. In short, i will be moving back to VA in 2yrs. They tax the hell out of you over here...not to mention other restrictions. Example: in VA car registration was $44....in LA my 2010 ford fusion cost $200 for registration😕

[@evanheaphy6561]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA those larger cities, do they also have 80% of their storefronts closed and boarded? The issue is that the few vibrant business districts we do have to create any sort of semblance of tourism here, is occupied by dirty hobos. NO one wants to vacation or spends their weekends being hassled by homeless. Keep throwing tax dollars at it anyway though, Richmond is paying for it anyway! Right?!?!

[@blondi31989]

I live in Roanoke and I’ve had no problems and neither has any of my friends or family

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

100%.!!! I have never had a problem either.

[@browningbelgium2326]

I love visiting there from GA. The Black Lantern Inn is a great place to stay and we've never felt unsafe at all. In essence, if someone complains about the food while everyone else enjoys it, that doesn't mean the food is bad. But if no one likes the food, then complaints are warranted. There are no perfect towns in America, just imperfect people.

[@Deklectic]

Omg there is nothing to do! That's halarious to me there's so many blue ridge activities to take part in down here that Its crazy!! I'm from CT and the part I was from was legit boring but I love it down here the cost of living in Connecticut is ridiculous so to me everything is much cheaper because I'm use to a higher cost of living. And the weather is perfect its not too hot and not too cold perfect balance.😉 I don't miss that New England attitude you get up north people in this area are really friendly.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I totally agree with you. I love all the outdoor activities we offer here in Roanoke.

[@paulntraci99]

Things to do in Roanoke-- If you want to go out to eat Roanoke has you covered. Seems there's always a new restaurant popping up around here. Some attractions are simply too over priced for the average person. Job opportunities-- If you want to work in a restaurant... A lot of companies have left Roanoke in the last 15/20 years. G.E., Norfolk Southern, Kroger's Mid Atlantic Headquarters, Frieghtcar America and a number of under 200 employee companies. True you can work as a plumber or HVAC Tech and get paid well, but that's about it. The rest are all minimum wage jobs or Temp company jobs. Homeless--Doesn't matter in reference to this video why they're on practically on every darn corner asking for money in S.E., N.W., N.E. . It's gotten so bad I cannot make a trip to the grocery store now without running into one to five of these people. And the problem with them getting handouts is they back up traffic, cause unsafe driving conditions and always leave trash behind. As for affordability. Apartment and house renting has always been a bit too expensive in the Roanoke area. In the last 5/15 years the cost of renting has sky rocked. And there definitely a lack of affordable housing in the area. But that's true of most of the country. After living in Roanoke for 12 yrs and then moving away for 5, going to several states and returning, I've regretted the move back since. Here again for almost 20 yrs and I should have stayed away when I had the chance. Nothing ever seems to change around here.

[@DJ-nomadlife]

Visiting this weekend,and hopefully to find a house in near future.I live in Woodbridge VA,and if people say Roanoke is not safe,well come to Woodbridge and see what it means to live near “big city”,trash ,homelessness,rude people and its terrible traffic.I hope Roanoke will disappoint me,looking forward to see the mountains there.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

You will love Roanoke. It still has that small town feel. I have friends that live in Northern VA, I would not want to live up there.

[@Apple-qe5mz]

How do you like Roanoke? I just came back 8/20/21 .. people are very friendly there but I wouldn't want to raise kids there myself..

[@nunyafawkingbiz]

I graduated high school in Woodbridge aka hoodbridge ! It was decent a decade ago but I know it’s gotten worse since then ! Roanoke is definitely a safer and better place to live !! I miss it and the views are beautiful!!

[@nunyafawkingbiz]

It’s a beautiful city and the mountains never get old! There are views from all over the city I live in Washington state now and I think Roanoke is even more beautiful than here ! Houses are cheaper and the people are nicer and it’s centrally located! It is boring and something about it does make you a little dreary but I was unemployed when I was there which probably played a big part in my feelings

[@gusshadleythelunaticfromar7125]

One thing in Roanoke has going for it, Trains, lots of trains. Amtrak, two arrivals and departures, all kinds of active tracks

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

All the tracks. I hope they open up Amtrak a little more and add some stops south of us. Thank you for watching.

[@DVXCine]

COL for single person is higher. Now lets see though jobs in detail. Before the pandemic there so many applicants that some companies had frozen hiring just to sort through that applications they had. Now as far as "nothing to do" I'll half agree with that. In the 80's 90's there was a lot more local activities that didn't cost you any money or very little, but now every event or gathering will cost you a lot more than you think it's going to. Wages have not compensated for the increase of COL. In 2006 the average age was above 50 IIRC and roanoke was having a mass exodus of it's younger population from the late 90's on. We they had a choice of a museum or a IMAX theater we got the former and that really didn't help things. Regulations on what kind of businesses can build or occupy any spaces in the valley are, strange to say the least (that may have changed some in the last 10 years). If roanoke wants to grow again it needs to loosen up. It's always been a "stuffy" place with a few not so smart people running it. I know some things I probably shouldn't because of the flood in 85. Your tax dollars and revenue are not going where they say there are, look to the north about 10 miles. The plan is kind of shady but I'm not a lawyer. My view of roanoke is it's a consumer city, meaning two very separate classes and two very separate incomes, very few of the higher income will pay for a local service. So every one is always on edge it seems like. So if you can get some cool smart inventive people to come to roanoke that won't bend to the will of city council then we might have a fighting chance.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I think with all the additions to Carilion we will start seeing young professionals moving this way. Thank you for watching our video.

[@WesHale]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Being employed by Carilion is one of the worst decisions a young professional can make today. Those additions do nothing but serve their own purpose. Take a screenshot of their medical staff today, and let's look at it side by side in a year.

[@greenway912]

These are the most ridiculous complaints ever. Homeless people and crime? Have the ever been to Chicago? Heck, even Richmond. I wouldn't walk around Richmond at night by myself. Nothing to do? Get real. There are TONS of things to do! We have museums, theater, movies (check out the Grandin, people), I could make a list a mile long! I don't think we want such negative Nancys here anyway. *haughty sniff* :D

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Absolutely, we try to provide other views points :) thanks for the input!

[@ezekielbesser9177]

Cheryl L open your eyes. This is coming from somebody who lives in the worst part of Roanoke. Just because the crimes aren’t seen and aren’t reported doesn’t mean they aren’t happening. My brother was recently shot. I had another friend who was killed a few months ago. My 13 year old cousin got stabbed walking home from school. I’ve been stabbed twice in Southeast. Don’t even get me started on the gang presence in NW that the police chief refuses to recognize which just gives it more time to develop

[@scholarlyanalyst7700]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Nice weather information! There are cities and towns in Canada that historically enjoy warmer winters than Roanoke (Data source is NOAA - a US government agency!). So please copy/paste the following google searches (using specifically Google’s search engine!). Average all 6 numbers for each location and you’ll see Race Rocks has warmer winters than Roanoke! 1. Roanoke, Virginia average winter temperatures 2. Race Rocks, Canada average winter temperatures Are you surprised by the fact the winters are warmer in Race Rocks, Canada than Roanoke, Virginia?

[@aviationroa737]

@Cooper Does Stuff THEN PROVE IT WHERE DO YOU LIVE SALEM THAT BORING!!!!!!

[@davelewandowski]

Those things are great if you're 40's and up but not everyone wants to go to a museum or sit in a movie theater all the time. Tell me what 23 year old wants to go to a museum?

[@lee-ur7nt]

It is a city, you will find homeless people. Roanoke does have some crime in certain areas and it has been probably been at that rate since the 1890s, similar to any other cities. Tons of stuff to do, all you have to do is go look around like you said. In terms of housing being cheaper. I know people from large cities who are blown away by how high the housing prices are here. Roanoke born and raised.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Great comment. Thank you for watching our channel.

[@lakittawoods7457]

I’m always confused about safety as I only hear this concept from certain demographics of people.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Most of Roanoke's violence is happening by people that have some type of connection with each other. Random kids and people are not being shot here.

[@michelefizer2774]

I've lived in Roanoke my entire life, 47 years. ❤ it. It will always be my home.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

What was your favorite thing to do in Roanoke?

[@michelefizer2774]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA well, as a teenager, of course cruising Williamson Rd was THE thing to do. And hanging out at Valley View Mall was always fun too. I remember going to the mall on opening day in 1985. Star city skating rink was probably the biggest part of my childhood. The science museum, art museum, hanging out downtown. There's so many things I loved and still love doing here in Roanoke! The Greenway is such a beautiful place to walk, ride bikes etc. And going to the Mill Mountain Star is a rite of passage, so to speak, when you live here lol. I could go on and on.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@michelefizer2774 wonderfully said. Favorite place to eat?

[@michelefizer2774]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA hmm good question haha. Famous Anthony's is great. Macados, Frankie Rowlands (if I've got the money for it 😅), My favorite place became the CheeseSTEAK Factory....locally owned. Had the best cheese steak subs EVER!! Plus they had authentic Jamaican food too, as the owner was Jamaican. And they fed the homeless for free on many occasions downtown by the Rescue Mission. Sadly, the owner of the restaurant was killed in a motorcycle crash last year and I suppose nobody was able to keep the restaurant running. I pray that they will be able to reopen in the very near future.

[@michelefizer2774]

@Aiden Grzanka aww wow!! So cool!! A lot of long time residents complain, but Roanoke isn't so bad. I love it here. 😘😘

[@markegerpetersen8731]

Most of the homeless are friendly. I drove for Metro for 20 years. I moved here from Los Angeles to enjoy the outdoors. These complaints just don't put Roanoke on the hit list. I think the natives don't know how good they have it here.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I agree. I have lived here all my life and love it. Did you drive for roanoke Valley Metro?

[@mikematerne4579]

That's because the city caters to outsiders, people from here run from here as soon as they turn 18.

[@Manga_Lloyd]

I only lived in Roanoke for 3 years, but the common complaints seem overblown in my opinion. I get the impression that Roanoke has the curse of being too small for "city people" and too big for "small town people." I found multiple things to do, some great restaurants, I loved my apartment, and compared to all the cookie-cutter houses out here in Phoenix, the houses are gorgeous. I also never felt unsafe. I fall into the category of people that came from a much bigger city, so the pace seemed slightly slower than I wanted. My only complaints were, for me, finding a job was very difficult, and something about the city as a whole seemed like it was dreary. I heard that some major train industry left town sometime around 2015 and it kinda felt like perhaps Roanoke and it's people haven't recovered from that loss yet.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I totally agree with you. Thanks for you input and thanks so much for watching.

[@vpsaxman]

-> too small for "city people" and too big for "small town people."

[@ShalamarEntertainmentGroupLLC]

Norfolk Southern opened an office here in the late eighties-it made a heck of a difference. They were the top employer in the city next to healthcare. It’s already felt like ‘something dark’ loomed over this area but since 2020 it’s been a different type of dark. A lot of the homeless people have been bussed in from other areas over the last few years, many of the small businesses have shut down, often leading to empty, ugly eyesores that get taken over by the homeless because the shelters aren’t efficient nor are they properly staffed, since housing cost have tripled in the last 18months and jobs are either mediocre w/o real compensation or they are non existent OR u are getting blocked by a bot instead of being able to reach an actual person. The largest employer here now is Carillion and they absolutely suck as an employer and as a healthcare system. Everyone in Roanoke who is making some type of progress is trying to GET OUT-it’s depressing to see this city today, frustrating with the lack of options, small town politics, racism and self imposed classism. I don’t imagine we’re the exception tho-everywhere is starting to look like this

[@michaelwilson7141]

I was born and raised in Roanoke and I hated it.i moved away 15 years ago and I don't miss it at all.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Where did you move to?

[@michaelwilson7141]

Pulaski virginia

[@DannyHikari]

1. Disagree. The mission isn't this great thing you are making it out to be. Actually a pretty messy system of forcing people to attend church daily to seek shelter. People dont remain homeless because they take advantage of the mission or dont use it, thats simplyfying a much more complex issue. A lot more to it than that but i'll stop there 2. Roanoke definitely isn't Chicago bad or even Norfolk/Richmond bad. If you aren't frequenting the inner city of Northwest or in Southeast you aren't going to see the crime or feel unsafe. As a lifelong resident living in the worst neighborhoods I can personally say i've never felt safe except for when i'm in Roanoke County or South Roanoke. At the same time if you mind your business and use common sense even on the rougher parts of town you can avoid a lot of situations. 3. I agree that people exaggerate about nothing to do in the city, but it also kind of goes with #2. A lot of people dont go downtown to do things because there is always problems downtown on the weekends. Not every weekend, but a lot of them. 4. Roanoke COL is definitely on the more affordable side. You dont have to be particular rich or make a lot of money to find a place to stay that isn't on the worst part of the city... thats factoring in ones living situation of course. 5. I'm very indifferent on.

[@anonymousguy8980]

Roanoke is dying so quickly. Nothing like being on one of their many trolleys and watching a junkie shit in front of whole families. The number of abandoned and vacant store fronts will tell the entire story. There are so many parts of town where Mr. Realtor would not set foot because he knows full well that junkies on PCP would leave him like a floppy little rag doll after a night of sexual violence.

[@evanheaphy6561]

It really is funny how many "well off" roanokers try to pedal this fake outdoor mecca. Newsflash, the people on the corners are not avid campers!

[@anthonypeterson5618]

NW leaving is part of a larger problem. Govt is not a effective medium that affords impartiality. Gud example courts. Cameras in the courtrooms r needed. As exclaimed by a notable judge "sunlight is the best antiseptic".

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

It is sad that NW is leaving.

[@kevenjune3904]

What about the school system? Asking from a family with a 3-year-old kid.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I think the schools here are great no matter where you live but here is a link that will give you more information about the different schools. www.greatschools.org/virginia/roanoke/

[@kaidenm3854]

I can tell you straight up. Any school is okay except Fleming

[@kevenjune3904]

@@kaidenm3854 thanks! I will be moving there in November or December!

[@NepyNepu]

I was watching a channel called Roanoke Gaming and this ad was under his video and kinda had the assumption it was about his channel before I clicked to go here

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Welcome even if it was an accident!

[@jabarieldridge6437]

It's hard to find or get a real good paying job in Ro or anywhere.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Literally everyone is hiring in Roanoke. Here is a link of some companies that have paid apprenticeships if you wanna make a change in careers. bit.ly/3jnAxAc

[@omniken66]

People call SE Roanoke and Melrose ave bad neighborhoods and scary....If you've lived here your entire life you might believe so but being from NYC those areas are nothing...nothing at all compared to areas I've been in ...I've worked in the projects in NY. There are a lot of good people in both SE and along Melrose ave and Tazewell ave too

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

As a child I lived in SE. We never had a problem and you are right Roanoke really doesn't have the problems that most big cities have. Thank you for your comments.

[@1KingCoop]

My family has lived in Roanoke for generations, i mean it has it's share of crime yes but for the most part some of the people are decent, they have a lot of interesting places you can go to, Mill Mountain is always a good destination, especially during the fall and Winter time, when the leaves are falling and the snow starts to come in. Also we have a few theaters and a few good places to shop.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I agree with all of that. Where is your favorite place to eat?

[@1KingCoop]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Hardee's on Hershberger.

[@MYHUMAN68]

This guy is telling you a big fat lie. I grew up in Roanoke and still live close. I grew up in the 70's here in Roanoke this city has gone down hill from there. No one in Roanoke wants to pay anything for a job and it has become a sorry city. Also the city wants to change the name of everything a pile of junk is a pile of junk even if you shine it up and change the name!!!!!!!

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Welcome to America my friend!!! Roanoke still has that small town feel. The violence that you see here is people that have some type of connection, they know each other, drugs, or some other type of connection. You don't see the random people being shot here. There are no 4 yr old kids being shot in a drive-by here. Every city in the world has crime, homeless people and all through the U.S. companies are about profit. Roanoke compared to Richmond, Hampton Roads, and Northern VA, we look like Mayberry. I love living here and have lived here all my life.

[@N4sir98]

How much acceptance do people in the Roanoke/Salem area have towards people with "alternative looks" (tie-dye, tattoos, piercings, mohawks, vivid hair colors, goths, etc)?

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

We don't care what you look like. Most of my friends have all of the above.

[@austinbuzzell]

What homeless shelter in the area helps the most?

[@VaLo1244]

We have yarn shops. Crafters and tons of places for crafters to sell stuff other than etsy.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

VaLo1244 Absolutely, maybe I should do a video series about things to do in Roanoke?

[@ezekielbesser9177]

There is nothing for the youth to do except for go to the mall and fight

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@ezekielbesser9177 there is a ton for the youth to do. We have the greenway which touches most areas, we have some of the best hiking in the country, there is something going on almost every weekend in a different locality. I grew up in the area saying the same thing as a kid. We as parents need to direct our children and show them the things to do and if all else fails there are lots of non-profits in the area they could volunteer their time.

[@dbcooper692]

I was looking at the crime numbers in Roanoke and they look very high. Are Vibes web site has Roanoke listed at "F" Sounds like you are just trying to make money!! I lived in Los Angeles for fifty-seven years and have more than my share of crime.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@db cooper people have to do their own research before they move here. I've got a video coming out on the crime rate in the Roanoke area. I have lived here all of my life and I'm almost 50 years old, I have never been robbed, shot at, my house has never been broken into, and no one's ever stolen anything out of my car. Most of the crime not all of it but most of it is happening to people that know each other. Most of our shootings are because people are hanging out with the wrong crowds, some of it has to do with drugs. there is not a street in Roanoke that I would not feel safe walking down. Now I am also not that guy that's roaming the streets at 2:00 and 3:00 in the morning either.

[@deannaluna7711]

We’re moving to Roanoke in a month.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

That's super exciting. Do you have any questions about the area? Did you need help finding a place?

[@deannaluna7711]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA thank you! We’re excited it looks so beautiful out there. We are completely new to the area, no family, no friends to lean on at the start. We have a 6yr old and a 4 yr old. Any advice or pointers are welcome!

[@jlsgarage872]

There's definitely a nice part of roanoke (around the mall where k&w is) and a very trashy part (around the hospital)

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

All cities have those type of areas.

[@PrincessKLS]

I lived there for a couple of years, I agree but it's better than my small town. I might move back though, we'll see.

[@lilitheflor8475]

I want to attend VWCC. Does anyone know of how the atmosphere is like? What would be a good place to move for college students putting themselves through college by themselves. How is transport like?

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

My daughter goes to Va Western and loves it. She is paying her way through college. Most places in Roanoke have some type of public transportation available. If there is a certain area you are looking in here is a link to Valley Metro where you can find stops and travel information. valleymetro.com/ Let me know if you have any more questions.

[@TravelGuy9834]

I wonder if there are Floridians flocking to Roanoke like they have been doing in Northwest and Northeast Georgia, North Alabama, Tennessee, and The Carolinas?

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I think we are getting Floridians here but I am seeing a lot of California,Washington, and North Carolina.

[@TravelGuy9834]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA That's a shame they are going to destroy the atmosphere and its reputation as it once was, so sad, well except for the people from North Carolina.

[@shananagar1601]

I lived in Roanoke during junior high, 95-97. My stand it was a field trip to the natural Bridge and the wax museum. I don’t think they’re actually in Roanoke but coming from Massachusetts where every single year we went to the same place those attractions felt like Disneyland! I loved living in Roanoke

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I love living here too. Natural Bridge is fun. I have family that lived in Blackstone Mass. for many years, I used to visit as a kid.

[@danakennedy5072]

I'm a native Virginian, moving back from NC. Can anyone recommend some nice apartment complexes? Thanks.

[@Pjtiji]

Jesus I hate it here been living here for 10 years now 15 and there's nun to do with me and my friends

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I can understand that. Roanoke is not for everyone. What are you doing to move to a different area?

[@rondaleigh]

I like visiting Roanoke in the cooler months. Favorite places are Cabo Fish Taco, Scratch Biscuits and the Roanoke Star.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Those are great places to eat. We are in colder months now so it's time to visit correct?

[@Goises]

Cabo fish taco is so good!

[@r.thomasguth2420]

I didn't hear smith mountain lake on your list of things to do.

[@xavierhidalgo2122]

Hahaha I think the same in the Crime Rate I live in Chicago and New Orleans and those cities are by far more dangerous than Roanoke

[@Bucky640]

Hey man, my wife and I just moved here from San Diego. You mentioned clubs but I haven’t found anything around. Got any specifics on night life? Any groups for young people?

[@awright119021]

No clubs that I know of. There are bars in the downtown area that are like clubs at night.

[@Bucky640]

A Wright we went to corn beef and company, that seems like it could be nice if it weren’t for COVID..

[@awright119021]

@@Bucky640 yea covid will probably make everything suck right now. There are maybe 3 or 4 downtown that are normally good on the weekends.

[@jonsully714]

Corned beef is nice. Is blueberry hills still there it was a popular nightclub when i lived there

[@anthonypeterson5618]

Recent Roanoke city report shows the aging population is or becoming the largest group. Govt protectionism is chasing industry.

[@bar2aclark650]

What do you know about southeast Roanoke? I'm going with a realtor tomorrow to look at a house on Stewart Avenue. It's a really beautiful house, and it's so reasonably priced I'm worried that there is something definitely wrong.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I know lots about S.E. just do your homework. There are good parts and bad parts.

[@cateharding]

I L♡VE my hometown!! I'm nostalgic and I love to talk about all the old stuff. My husband and kids know about what happened in 1985 because, duh, I have mentioned it so many times 😆 FYI- the County library has a video that has lots of live footage 🙃

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

85' was crazy. I miss Victory Stadium.

[@cn4492]

The incomes are quite low compared to “decent housing”costs. U know that as a realtor ! Geesh. Lack of jobs, unless you’re in the medical profession. Crime- not that bad, plenty of outdoor activities. But it’s a small city. So don’t expect big city amenities. I give it a thumbs up if you are able to secure a higher paying job or work remotely.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Great comment!!!

[@jmill3147]

I was going to comment on the lack of jobs outside of the medical field but figured someone else would point it out. I was not wrong. I think it would have been a much nicer place say 30-40 years ago.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@jmill3147 I agree. That's when the railroad was a big deal in Roanoke. I am glad jobs are still coming to Roanoke.

[@jmill3147]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA We lived in Buchanan during the '85 flood. I was 3 so I barely remember it. But I have a feeling that flood took a toll on Roanoke that they still feel to this day. My fondest memories of Roanoke when growing up were of Happy's Flea Market (lol) and K&W (Kanes & Walkers). I lived there for about 6 months back in 2004 after moving back from Virginia Beach. It was an absolute culture shock.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@jmill3147 I loved Happy's but I am not a fan of K&W but my wife and one of my daughters love it. I remember the flood I lived in Salem then at the Baptist Home (Hope Tree now).

[@no-kx3bx]

I love Roanoke but everything is fair away and you cant go walking to some places. btw I live in roanoke county Cave spring. I'm used to living in alexandria Va but and you can go walking to a lot of places so its kinda weird but other than that is awesome. and i said the walking thing because I don't have a car because im 14 lol

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

A car is helpful. At 14 I rode my bike everywhere. My friends and I would ride from Salem to downtown Roanoke and hang out for the day and the ride back home before dark.

[@Thisnoneofyourbuisness]

Look at Southwest Roanoke Cough, cough ( Schaeffers crossing)

[@sarwatrizvi5325]

What about job chances there spsialy now a days, in covd 19 situation

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

There are lots of job opportunities here in Roanoke.

[@aidenstainbrook2672]

I RESET MY DATA AND I LOST MY STUFF

[@tonial5789]

nice and affordable houses, great for jogging lots of outdoor activities. I can see myself moving to a town like this in 10-15 years

[@aviationroa737]

BRUH! ROANOKE IS THE BEST EVER! Grandin is amazing! of course there are some not so great parts of town. but look at New york! so i think this is wrong to say wrong stuff a city built before you were born!

[@johnnysalami27]

I don’t know, black dog salvage is pretty cool man. Roanoke is like no other place in the country. All y’all are haters. Roanoke will always be a small town that has a city name. I can’t believe I clicked on this video

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

It's a great video isn't it?

[@Derpinurface]

ive lived here my whole life and i can agree with almost everything in here. its a very shitty city if your anywhere from 18-30 and its been getting worse

[@greywnl1275]

I live in Roanoke it’s really no much to do

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Especially with Covid-19. Typically this is the time for all kinds of outdoor festivals and loads of things to do.

[@cowman2775]

Living in Roanoke it’s really fun to go downtown and ride on the scooters it’s so fun to ride on the road and the center of square is also fun downtime

[@wijo6234]

Try living in Franklin County

[@greywnl1275]

Will Jones I do lol

[@wijo6234]

@@greywnl1275 well then, this is awkward

[@Kehmet14]

Only if he knew two months later and he'd be singing a different tune

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Are you talking about Covid?

[@Kehmet14]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA No, the continually productize granular deliverables

[@kamadogrove]

Moved to Roanoke from NJ 25 years ago and I love it here so much! Friendly people, affordable, awesome outdoor activities and slower pace.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I love all the outdoor activities that the Roanoke Valley has to offer. What is your favorite thing to do in Roanoke?

[@kamadogrove]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA love the hiking, outdoor concerts, greenway biking and wading in the river and creeks.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Some of my favorite also.

[@theblendedginger]

I live in SW Roanoke

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Me too! What do you like most about living here?

[@Skylarhackney]

Bro it is so good it does not suck

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I agree with you. I love the Roanoke area and all it has to offer.

[@soileddungarees]

Man I feel unsafe going everywhere but south Roanoke, go to the grandin 7-11 after 11pm see how fast you get accustomed by random homeless people, I lived on Kirk avenue and in SW my house was shot up in a drive by shooting, go to the days in on orange Ave see how fast they run your pockets this place sucks unless you already have alot of money and can afford to live in south Roanoke, there's a shooting nearly everyday you'll find empty syringes scattered all about the place when I was in highschool there was constant fights I was sprayed with pepper spray by the resource officer while unknowingly walking past a fight, the eductors are absolute trash they'd come into class and flat out say they aren't getting paid enough and just hang out packets I know people who were literally raped in the public schools I feel unsafe literally everywhere I go

[@soileddungarees]

I left you a like though lmao

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I appreciate the like. Have you subscribed yet? What do you like about the Roanoke area?

[@dexteww]

Roanoke isn’t perfect but it’s a great place…

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Thank you for your comment. I agree with you. When you look at other cities around Virginia, Roanoke is pretty awesome.

[@starcitylife6415]

Heyyyy - I been to this place before...!!!

[@chrisgibson8905]

Know your town! He's right on jobs but he's not even close to correct

[@chrisgibson8905]

He doesn't even try to show the blue ridge trail the way it should be

[@chrisgibson8905]

People help anyone not equiped to do what needs to be donr

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

How should it be? I would love to shoot another video about it. 🎥

[@kellyshenise7710]

Other than the beautiful view of the mountains and natural history it was pretty boring

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

So many outdoor activities!!!!!

[@capotillo2876]

ANY STRIP BAR?LOL

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

There is one that I know of, The Gold And Silver Gentlemen's Club on Franklin Rd.

[@kimcircagirl474]

i want visit oh so Bad!!

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

What's stopping you? What draws you to the Roanoke area?

[@kimcircagirl474]

,because ive read its like an urban and rural area all in 1 ,Soon☺️ We will get there😆😁

[@kimcircagirl474]

,you get a lil bit urban and yet rural,lot restaurant s ,Is there unique coffee shops?😅😁

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@kimcircagirl474 there are quite a few unique coffee shops in the area one of my favorite is Sweet Donkey in South Roanoke area.

[@kelseysloan3575]

No they have kids square

[@1Hopeinhim]

It's a great city if you're 80.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

It is a great city.

[@maganafamily9735]

We’re thinking about moving to Roanoke. We already looked up stats on BestPlaces and your crime rate is laughable compared to the last two places we lived. That and where we live police refuse to document most crimes, so our number is even higher than stated. Love the video 🙂

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

I don't believe so. I have a crime rate video coming out in a week or so. I think most crimes here are related. Meaning the people know each other.

[@maganafamily9735]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA sorry, that’s what I meant by laughable. Your crime rate is sooo much smaller than where we lived in Arizona. I know most East Coast crimes are unfortunately family on family crimes, which is sad, but the general population outside closed doors is usually lovely.

[@mikematerne4579]

​@@maganafamily9735first off, I will tell you that the overall environment in the region is "lawless". The same reason you don't believe the statistics in your area, is the same reason you shouldn't believe them in our area. It doesn't matter what area of the city you live in, you will hear gunfire every single night.

[@mr.rodgersneighborhood1495]

I love Roanoke

[@republicofjusta7777]

Im from south east

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Have you always lived there?

[@aattura1541]

Slow people. Really slow. Not just the way they move or talk, but the way they think. They also don't like outsiders.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

You need to find a different set of people to talk with. Where did you live that didn't like outsiders?

[@aattura1541]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA Toots. You asked. I replied

[@spicykingcam4031]

Roanoke is great there's alot to do

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

What is your favorite thing to do in Roanoke?

[@thomascaldwell3537]

Shit more than 5 reasons roanoke sucks.........

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

You need new friends if Roanoke sucks that bad or even an exit strategy to leave the area.

[@thomascaldwell3537]

I have great friends an I am looking for a house in Salem fuck roanoke all they want are drunks down town an the cops are chicken shit they won't do anything homeless crack heads have more rights than a person that works everyday an trys to have something

[@bcole1637]

The people here are hateful as hell, especially if you're "different"

[@rickrudd]

You're crazy - I'm a gay Mexican-American Italian Yankee Jew and they love me here. Life is what you make of it.

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

@@rickrudd amen!!! Everybody is different in their own way. You just have to find your tribe and not care what people think.

[@pamgreenfield2853]

I can imagine so being in Virginia. I need diversity, I live near Baltimore ,MD we have all kinds of people from all walks of life, every sub genre you can think of.

[@bcole1637]

@@pamgreenfield2853 never been!!! I may go one day

[@samin1978]

3⁰ world usa

[@samin1978]

Just small roberys kkkk keep voting democratas ... homeless

[@micahsweet6451]

Don’t move to Roanoke!!!!!

[@robertbates6249]

are u related to Doug Sweetenberg?

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Do you live in Roanoke now?

[@robertbates6249]

@@DiscoverRoanokeVA yes

[@peterlarson3284]

I bet this guy has never lived in north West Roanoke, where there are shootings several times a month, I have felt scared. I don't do drugs and don't belong to any gangs .

[@DiscoverRoanokeVA]

Kyle has not but he has lived in some scetchy places. I however have and also on 9th st S.E. and never any problems. I am in the northwest area of Roanoke several times a week during the day and during the evening and I've never felt unsafe.