College Station, a city known for its lively college life and rich history, is also home to a variety of walkable neighborhoods. From the diverse Northgate to the serene Southwood Valley, each neighborhood offers a unique charm for its residents. Apartments are also fairly affordable here, with the average-one bedroom unit costing just $810.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we will take you on a virtual tour of the most walkable neighborhoods in College Station. This guide is a must-read for renters who value the convenience of having amenities within walking distance. So, get ready to discover the pedestrian-friendly side of College Station.
All data sourced March 2024.
1. Northgate
Walk Score: 61
Northgate is the most walkable neighborhood in College Station, with a Walk Score of 61. Known for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to Texas A&M University, residents and visitors alike can explore the area and take advantage of its walkable layout. Notable attractions include the Northgate Vintage and the popular Dixie Chicken bar.
Search for Northgate apartments for rent.
2. Parkway Plaza
Walk Score: 56
Parkway Plaza has a Walk Score of 56, making it the second most walkable neighborhood in College Station. There’s a lot to love about the area, from its close-knit community to its convenient location close to the A&M campus. While you’re walking around the neighborhood, check out the TAZ Indian Cuising and Admanson Lagoon Pool.
See Parkway Plaza apartments for rent.
3. College Hills Estates
Walk Score: 52
College Hills Estates is the third most walkable neighborhood in the city. There are numerous walkable areas and attractions throughout College Hills Estates, like the Rosa’s Care & Tortilla Factory and the Hullabaloo Strips. And if you’re in the mood for an adventure, you’re not far from Bee Creek Park.
Find College Hills Estates apartments for rent.
4. Wolf Pen Creek District
Walk Score: 52
Wolf Pen Creek District has plenty of amenities a resident might need within walking distance. From the Wolf Pen Creek Park to the Spirit Ice Arena, you’re sure to find something to love. A notable amenity is the Wolf Pen Creek, which is a popular spot among locals.
Browse Wolf Pen Creek District apartments for rent.
5. Brentwood
Walk Score: 50
As the fifth most walkable neighborhood in the city, Brentwood is known for its peaceful residential streets. Consider exploring the Andy Anderson Arboretum or grabbing a bite to eat at Ohana Korean Grill.
Discover Brentwood apartments for rent.
6. Texas A&M University
Walk Score: 49
Texas A&M University has a Walk Score of 49, making it the sixth most walkable neighborhood in College Station. Known for its bustling campus life, residents and visitors can choose from walkable amenities such as the university libraries, gyms, and the student recreation center. While you’re out, check out the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
Look for Texas A&M University apartments for rent.
7. Southwood Terrace
Walk Score: 46
Southwood Terrace is the seventh most walkable neighborhood in the city. This quiet community has quite a few hotspots for residents to visit on foot, including Bachmann Park and the TruFit Athletic Clubs. While you’re walking, take a moment to enjoy the peaceful residential streets.
Search for Southwood Terrace apartments for rent.
8. Bee Creek
Walk Score: 44
Bee Creek has a Walk Score of 44, making it the eighth most walkable neighborhood in the city. There’s a lot to love about the area, from grabbing a bite to eat at Coco Loco, to taking a walk at Bee Creek Park. If you’re up for a longer outing, nearby Veterans Memorial Park is popular among locals.
Find Bee Creek apartments for rent.
9. Eastmark
Walk Score: 44
The ninth most walkable neighborhood in College Station is Eastmark. Pedestrians can enjoy Stephen C. Beachy Central Park or heading over to the BCS Asian Market. It’s also easy to walk to Brothers Pond Park for a great day out.
Peruse Eastmark apartments for rent.
10. Southwood Valley
Walk Score: 39
Southwood Valley is the tenth most walkable neighborhood in the city. Local attractions here include Georgie K. Fitch Park and Wings ‘N More, providing residents a spot to get together and enjoy their community. However, with a Walk Score of 39, it may be a challenge to complete some errands on foot.
Discover Southwood Valley apartments for rent.
Methodology: Walk Score, a Redfin company, helps people find walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly places to live, rating areas on a scale from 0-100. To calculate a Walk Score for a given point, Walk Score analyzes thousands of walking routes to nearby amenities, population density, and metrics such as block length and intersection density. Points are awarded based on the distance to amenities in each category.
Significantly more Americans own a home now than a decade ago, but the disparity between Black homeownership rates and those of other racial and ethnic groups has grown wider, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Overall, U.S. homeownership increased over the decade to 2022, with 10.5 million more homeowners across the country, the study by the trade group found, drawing on Census data. Asian Americans experienced the sharpest increase over the period, with ownership rates soaring to a historic high of 63.3%. Hispanic Americans saw a gain of 3.2 million households, to reach a new peak of 51.1%.
While Black Americans also saw homeownership advance, the gain was modest. And at 44.1%, their rate is notably lower than that for Asian, Hispanic and White Americans. The gap between Blacks and Whites – the highest among the four major groups – widened by a percentage point from 2012, to 28 percentage points.
“Minority homeownership gained ground,” Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research, said in a statement. “While the gains should be celebrated, the pathway into homeownership remains arduous for minority buyers.”
The NAR’s analysis showed 55% of Asian and 51% of Black and Hispanic howe owners were first-time buyers, something that places them at a particular disadvantage in a market marked by high prices and limited supply. That’s because first-timers “must rely on down-payment sources beyond gained housing equity,” Lautz said.
Other challenges for would-be buyers of color include difficulties in saving for a down payment — as they typically spend higher proportions of their income on rent and paying back student loans.
Black homebuyers, for instance, reported the highest levels of student-loan debt among all groups, with 41% carrying a record high median debt of $46,000, while 29% of Hispanic buyers had student loan debt with a median of $33,000. The NAR has also cited data showing Black Americans draw on pension or 401(k) savings more than any other group.
Citing data from the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the NAR last year said Black and Hispanic homebuyers face additional barriers in securing mortgages, such as higher denial rates compared with their White and Asian counterparts.
For those who do obtain mortgages, the interest rates tend to be higher on average, Tuesday’s report showed. For loans originated in 2022, 20% for Blacks and 21% for Hispanics exceeded 6%, in contrast with lower percentages among Asian and White borrowers.
A soft opening Feb. 3 brought customers into the RD International Market who shopped the food, décor and houseware aisles, the fresh produce, refrigerated foods, frozen and fresh meats and fish – and the 70 live seafood tanks.
Crab, eel, geoduck (a large clam), shrimp and other live seafood were available along with other fresh options.
Owner Steven Yuan said business was good. “There are a lot of people,” he said, surveying the renovated Winn-Dixie at 7534 Beach Blvd.
The Asian and international supermarket is in the Beach Boulevard Shopping Center along Beach Boulevard at Hogan and Parental Home roads near the eastern access to the Hart Expressway.
Winn-Dixie closed in 2017. Yuan has leased it as his second RD International Market, with the first in Lake Worth.
The city issued a permit June 2, 2023, for Master Contractors Inc. of Lake Worth to renovate the 52,600-square-foot store at a construction cost of $980,000. The architect is Sandra Puerta of Lake Worth.
Yuan equipped the store with new flooring, shelving, freezers, refrigerators, checkout stations and carts with swivel casters that allow for easy guidance.
Some shelves and cold cases were not full yet Feb. 3; the hot food area in the back was not set up; and the 13 food court tenants were not operating. The sign was up for one of the tenants, Teppanyaki House. Tables and chairs are being prepared for setup.
Yuan said the store should be fully open in 20 or 30 days with the food court open within a month. He is considering a grand opening event.
From housewares to meats
In addition to food, the store carries housewares, toys, décor, tea sets and tea tables and chairs.
Meats include traditional cuts as well as frog legs; duck feet; pork belly, intestines and snouts; and other specialty varieties.
Produce includes mushroom varieties, bok choy tips and a large selection of vegetables and fruit.
The live seafood is sourced from its native areas, such as cold water from the north and warm water from Florida.
RD International intends to carry Florida-sourced fish and produce to the extent available.
Staff can clean and cut the seafood for customers and in the future will be able to cook it for eating in the food court or to take home.
The store is open in time for the Feb. 10 Lunar New Year for the Year of the Dragon. The celebration concludes with the Feb. 24 Lantern Festival.
The Chinese New Year also is known as the Spring Festival.
RD International Market is stocking seasonal items for the celebration.
Hours are posted as 10 a.m to 9 p.m. daily but those may change. Yuan said the Jacksonville store has been opening earlier than that.
The state’s second RD International
Last June, when starting work on the store, Yuan said the market would include fresh produce, a bakery, 13 to 14 food-court operators, a hot food bar, groceries and – its specialty – 60 fish tanks for live seafood, including lobster, shrimp and crab.
The first market opened five years ago in Lake Worth. It has 30 live seafood tanks. At 11,000 square feet, the Lake Worth store is about a fifth of the size of the Jacksonville location.
Yuan and Irene Zhang, his sister and a company representative, expect the center to create 80 jobs.
The website says the market will host community events throughout the year.
“A lot of grandparents take the kids as a field trip to our store,” Zhang said previously.
While the store has a strong inventory of Asian food, the goal is to serve an international market.
“There is a large Asian population in Jacksonville,” Zhang said, in sharing how they chose the location.
While there are smaller Asian and international groceries, there is no large one with a wide selection of live seafood, she said.
“Jacksonville is a big city,” she said, and the Beach Boulevard address is conveniently located.
The U.S. Census reports that as of 2022, the Asian population in Jacksonville is estimated at more than 47,500, or 4.9% of the city’s population. That is up 35% from 35,200 in 2010.
The ZIP codes with the highest Asian population include 32256, 32246, 32207, 32258 and 32216, where the store opened, which is central to the others.
With Jacksonville’s waterfront and fishing, “it is a very good place to have a seafood market,” Zhang said.
The property owner is 1980 Union Port Associates LLC of New York City. Goldstein Commercial Properties Inc. is the landlord representative.
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law’s editorial disclosure for more information.
The average student loan debt is $37,557.60 per borrower, though the exact amount varies significantly from person to person.
Conversations around student loan debt forgiveness have called to attention a staggering statistic: in the middle of 2023, Americans held a collective $1.63 trillion in federal student loans spread amongst more than 43 million borrowers.
The average student loan debt is $37,557.60 per borrower, though the exact amount varies significantly from person to person depending on age, gender and education level, among other characteristics.
The following chart captures the staggering rise of average student loan debt since 2007 by displaying the average debt, total debt and total number of borrowers and how they have changed over time.
Average student loan debt over time
Year
Average debt
Total debt
Borrowers
2007
$18,233.22
$516 billion
28.3 million
2008
$19,297.66
$577 billion
29.9 million
2009
$20,467.29
$657 billion
32.1 million
2010
$21,865.89
$750 billion
34.3 million
2011
$23,232.88
$848 billion
36.5 million
2012
$24,751.96
$948 billion
38.3 million
2013
$26,262.63
$1.04 trillion
39.6 million
2014
$27,764.13
$1.13 trillion
40.7 million
2015
$29,086.54
$1.21 trillion
41.6 million
2016
$30,732.86
$1.30 trillion
42.3 million
2017
$32,159.62
$1.37 trillion
42.6 million
2018
$33,566.43
$1.44 trillion
42.9 million
2019
$35,198.14
$1.51 trillion
42.9 million
2020
$36,596.74
$1.57 trillion
42.9 million
2021
$37,096.77
$1.61 trillion
43.4 million
2022
$37,471.26
$1.63 trillion
43.5 million
2023
$37,557.60
$1.63 trillion
43.4 million
Source: U.S. Department of Education
After accounting for inflation, the average student loan debt has increased by more than 50 percent since 2007. According to the Pew Research Center, the median purchasing power of Americans has hardly risen in the past four decades, so it stands to reason that student loan debt is an ever-increasing source of financial burden.
Student loan debt has ballooned over the past 15 years. At the beginning of 2007, just 28 million borrowers held around $500 billion in student loan debt—or an average of $18,233 per borrower. In 2023, the number of borrowers increased to about 43 million, who collectively hold more than $1.6 trillion in debt, which amounts to an average of $37,557.60 per person.
Although average student loan debt is more than $37,000, this figure is somewhat skewed since some students have extraordinarily large sums of debt that raise the overall average. The greatest number of borrowers owe just $10,000 to $20,000 in student loans, but more than 3 million are over $100,000 in debt from federal student loans.
Using the most recent available data from the U.S. Department of Education, we’ve compiled detailed statistics about the average student loan debt for Americans. Read on to see more, or use the links below to jump to a specific section.
Average student loan debt:
Average student loan debt by state
While student loan debt is a national concern, the effects are felt differently in various states across the country. Many states have average student loan debt that hovers around the $37,645 national average, but there are several notable outliers. North Dakota, for instance, has the lowest average student loan debt at $30,000, while Maryland has the highest average student loan debt at $43,115.
Though they are not technically states, the District of Columbia has a very high average student loan debt of $54,347, and the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico has a relatively low average student loan debt of $29,577.
Here’s a list of U.S. states along with their average student loan debt, total student loan debt and total borrowers using data as of June 30, 2023.
Average student loan debt by state
State
Average debt
Total debt
Borrowers
Alabama
$37,265.17
$24.2 billion
649,400
Alaska
$34,493.45
$2.4 billion
68,700
Arizona
$35,543.01
$32.5 billion
917,300
Arkansas
$33,508.38
$13.4 billion
399,900
California
$37,343.36
$149 billion
3.99 million
Colorado
$36,939.31
$29.4 billion
795,900
Connecticut
$36,055.35
$18.5 billion
513,100
Delaware
$38,173.65
$5.1 billion
133,600
District of Columbia
$54,347.83
$6.5 billion
119,600
Florida
$39,037.04
$105.4 billion
2.7 million
Georgia
$41,529.41
$70.6 billion
1.7 million
Hawaii
$37,995.15
$4.7 billion
123,700
Idaho
$33,139.27
$7.4 billion
223,300
Illinois
$39,437.50
$63.1 billion
1.6 million
Indiana
$33,105.92
$30.3 billion
918,300
Iowa
$30,758.71
$13.5 billion
438,900
Kansas
$33,127.89
$12.9 billion
389,400
Kentucky
$33,110.42
$20.3 billion
613,100
Louisiana
$34,777.39
$23.2 billion
667,100
Maine
$33,854.42
$6.5 billion
192,000
Maryland
$43,115.60
$36.7 billion
851,200
Massachusetts
$34,922.69
$32.3 billion
924,900
Michigan
$36,928.57
$51.7 billion
1.4 million
Minnesota
$33,953.31
$27.2 billion
801,100
Mississippi
$36,904.50
$16.5 billion
447,100
Missouri
$35,536.60
$30 billion
844,200
Montana
$33,690.66
$4.4 billion
130,600
Nebraska
$32,449.54
$8.2 billion
252,700
Nevada
$33,996.68
$12.3 billion
361,800
New Hampshire
$34,341.36
$6.7 billion
195,100
New Jersey
$35,416.67
$44.9 billion
1.2 million
New Mexico
$34,022.39
$7.9 billion
232,200
New York
$37,960.00
$94.9 billion
2.5 million
North Carolina
$36,857.14
$51.6 billion
1.4 million
North Dakota
$30,000.00
$2.7 billion
90,000
Ohio
$35,000.00
$63 billion
1.8 million
Oklahoma
$31,874.88
$16.1 billion
505,100
Oregon
$37,415.59
$20.5 billion
547,900
Pennsylvania
$35,000.00
$66.5 billion
1.9 million
Puerto Rico
$29,577.05
$10 billion
338,100
Rhode Island
$32,885.91
$4.9 billion
149,000
South Carolina
$38,360.14
$29.1 billion
758,600
South Dakota
$31,746.03
$3.8 billion
119,700
Tennessee
$36,557.93
$32.5 billion
889,000
Texas
$33,447.37
$127.1 billion
3.8 million
Utah
$33,125.00
$10.6 billion
320,000
Vermont
$38,071.07
$3 billion
78,800
Virginia
$39,818.18
$43.8 billion
1.1 million
Washington
$36,176.03
$29.1 billion
804,400
West Virginia
$32,159.93
$7.4 billion
230,100
Wisconsin
$32,231.85
$23.8 billion
738,400
Wyoming
$30,357.14
$1.7 billion
56,000
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Total student loan debt for each state correlates strongly with population, so California ($149 billion), Texas ($127.1 billion) and New York ($94.9 billion) have the largest amount of debt among all states. The smallest amount of debt belongs to Wyoming, which holds just $1.7 billion among 56,000 borrowers—though that is nearly 10 percent of the state’s population with some sort of student loan debt.
Average student loan debt by age
Student loan debt varies significantly by age, with those ages 50 to 61 holding the highest average debt at $45,584.62. On the other hand, the greatest number of borrowers are ages 25 to 34 (14.9 million total borrowers), and the greatest amount of debt is held by those ages 35 to 49 ($613 billion total debt). Those 62 or older represent less than 6 percent of total borrowers who hold just $92 billion—less than any other age group.
The following chart shows the average student loan debt, total student loan debt and number of borrowers for each major age group.
Average student loan debt by age
Age
Average debt
Total debt
Borrowers
24 and younger
$14,383.35
$97.8 billion
6.8 million
25 to 34
$32,801.32
$495.3 billion
15.1 million
35 to 49
$43,000.00
$632.1 billion
14.7 million
50 to 61
$45,584.62
$296.3 billion
6.5 million
62 and older
$42,518.52
$114.8 billion
2.7 million
Source: U.S. Department of Education
The average debt for each age group is skewed slightly upward by a small number of people who hold a significant amount of student loan debt—in some cases $200,000 or more. Across borrowers ages 25 to 61, it is most common to have between $20,000 and $40,000 of student loan debt, whereas those under 25 generally have between $10,000 and $20,000. Most borrowers above age 62 have less than $5,000 in debt.
Across all age groups, a total of 11.7 million borrowers owe more than $40,000 in student loan debt—meaning around 25 percent of total borrowers have more debt than average.
Average student loan debt by race and gender
Student loan debt is not distributed equally among races and genders, as borrowing patterns tend to vary substantially. While Asian students tend to borrow the least amount of money to fund their education, Black students tend to borrow the most. In general, a smaller percentage of white students (67 percent) and Asian students (43 percent) took out loans for their education than Hispanic students (70 percent) and Black students (86 percent).
Here is a full look at how students of different races and genders funded their education using student loans.
Average student loan amount borrowed by race and gender
Race or ethnicity
Gender
Average borrowed
White
Male
$29,862
Female
$31,346
Black or African American
Male
$35,665
Female
$37,558
Hispanic or Latino
Male
$27,452
Female
$27,029
Asian
Male
$25,507
Female
$25,252
Source: American Association of University Women
Many women take loans out for four-year for-profit universities, which tend to charge higher tuition, leading to larger student loan burdens after graduation. The American Association of University Women found that women hold nearly two-thirds of student loan debt, and many women manage debt payments while also managing housing, food or childcare costs on an average post-graduation salary of about $35,000.
Among Black women, 57 percent of college graduates report difficulty repaying student loans despite earning a bachelor’s degree or higher. A 2022 study by The Education Trust also found that 12 years after enrolling in college, Black women find themselves owing 13 percent more than the amount they initially borrowed, whereas White men have managed to reduce their debt by 44 percent in the same time frame.
Average student loan debt by repayment status
The average student loan debt varies according to repayment status, as student loans are treated differently for students in school, throughout the post-graduation grace period, amid repayment or during deferment, forbearance or default. For students in school and during the post-graduation grace period, no payments are required—though interest may continue to accrue for unsubsidized loans. Deferment and forbearance are similar, though no interest accrues with deferment as it typically does with forbearance.
The following chart shows the average student loan debt for those with different repayment statuses. Keep in mind that the below chart is based on data from Q3 2023. Prior to that, in March 2020, many major shifts occurred in loan statuses due to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
The following chart shows the average student loan debt for those with different repayment statuses.
Average student loan debt by repayment status
Status
Average debt
Total debt
Borrowers
In school
$17,903.85
$93.1 billion
5.2 million
Grace
$23,923.08
$31.1 billion
1.3 million
Repayment
$33,000.00
$9.9 billion
300,000
Deferment
$36,571.43
$102.4 billion
2.8 million
Forbearance
$40,260.07
$1,099.1 trillion
27.3 million
Default
$21,844.44
$98.3 billion
4.5 million
Source: U.S. Department of Education
While temporary government action has offered reprieve to millions of student loan borrowers, a looming financial crisis still threatens as high-interest loans prevent many people from accumulating wealth, purchasing homes or starting families.
Total student loan debt has tripled over the past 15 years—and in that time, it has passed both auto loans and credit card debt for the greatest share of non-housing debt in the United States, according to data from the Federal Reserve Bank.
With student loan debt on the rise, many people were struggling to make payments before the CARES Act. Now that payments have restarted as of October 2023, you’ll want to make sure you’re making payments on time. Student loan debt and payments can have an impact on your credit, so getting a handle on that debt is crucial.
If you need help with cleaning up your credit report or getting your credit back on track, our services at Lexington Law Firm could help. The combination of debt from student loans, credit cards, mortgages and auto loans can be overwhelming and make it hard to maintain good credit, but professional support can provide the boost you need to overcome these temporary obstacles.
Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.
Reviewed By
Alexis Peacock
Supervising Attorney
Alexis Peacock was born in Santa Cruz, California and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona.
In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology, graduating cum laude from Arizona State University. Ms. Peacock received her Juris Doctor from Arizona Summit Law School and graduated in 2016. Prior to joining Lexington Law Firm, Ms. Peacock worked in Criminal Defense as both a paralegal and practicing attorney. Ms. Peacock represented clients in criminal matters varying from minor traffic infractions to serious felony cases. Alexis is licensed to practice law in Arizona. She is located in the Phoenix office.
You may have a preconception about moving to Omaha. But once you’re in the city, it exceeds expectations and is a place you don’t want to leave.
Omahans enjoy outstanding attractions, such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, considered one of the top zoos in the world. With nearly 130 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, the zoo claims to have the world’s largest indoor desert dome and the top indoor rain forest in North America. The African Grasslands and Asian Highlands feature animals in natural settings.
The Durham Museum showcases Omaha’s history, such as its early days as a railroad center and the site of the 1898 World’s Fair, a.k.a. Trans-Mississippi Expedition. Outdoor attractions include Fontenelle Forest, with more than 15 miles of natural trails among the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River, as well as the downtown riverfront, which is home to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, one of the longest bridges connecting two states as Nebraska and Iowa meet in the middle of the river.
Omaha’s culinary scene rivals that of many bigger cities in the U.S. With several James Beard Foundation-nominated chefs, you’ll find restaurants featuring fresh handmade dishes from around the world. Farm-to-table dining is popular, with restaurants like The Grey Plume, Dante and Au Courant leading the way. It’s hard to taste better Italian dishes than you’ll find at Lo Sole Mio or Malara’s. South Omaha is ripe with authentic Mexican eateries.
While the city doesn’t have any major league sport, it’s an amateur sports mecca. From the College World Series in June to hosting multiple U.S. Olympics trials, including swimming and curling events, Omaha attracts hundreds of thousands of fans to the area. Omaha is also home to the Storm Chasers, the top minor league baseball team for the Kansas City Royals.
Keep on reading to see if moving to Omaha is a fit, and why you’ll love to live there and strive to keep it “America’s best-kept secret.”
Omaha overview
Omaha is home to four of Forbes Top 500 companies, led by Berkshire-Hathaway. With local billionaire Warren Buffett at the helm, Berkshire-Hathaway is among the top five companies by Forbes. Other top Forbes companies include Union Pacific (No. 141), Mutual of Omaha (337) and Kiewit Corp. (339).
While enjoying major economic success, Omaha maintains a Midwestern small-town feel, where it’s common for people to say hi as they see you on the street and hold the door for you when entering buildings.
While experiencing growth and development in neighborhoods across the city, the Omaha cost of living continues to remain strong, along with steady job growth.
Population: 478,192
Population density (People per square mile): 3,217.9
Median income: $59,266
Studio average rent: $864
One-bedroom average rent: $946
Two-bedroom average rent: $1,173
Cost of Living index: 93.4
Popular neighborhoods in Omaha
Moving to Omaha offers you a chance to explore the city’s history, culture and diversity. While west and southwest Omaha offers the feel of suburbia, Omaha’s most popular neighborhoods remain the oldest and most upscale.
From the riverfront to midtown, you’ll find a mix of older and contemporary apartments and condominiums to call home, while also enjoying easy access to culture, parks, vintage shops and a fun nightlife scene, featuring outstanding eateries and bars.
Old Market: Old Market is the heartbeat of Omaha. The nine-block area hosts one of the Midwest’s longest-running farmers markets each summer and fall. The entertainment district is family-friendly during the day, with restaurants, shops and galleries open, before becoming an adult-centric neighborhood at night, as couples dine out and then hit bars and clubs, creating a fun, party atmosphere.
Benson: One of Omaha’s oldest neighborhoods, Benson is an eclectic mix of art galleries, coffee shops, craft breweries and restaurants. Toss in vintage and unique clothing shops, and you’ve found the city’s “Hipster” area. During “First Fridays,” galleries and other businesses stay open later on the first Friday of each month, along with entertainment and even food trucks lining the streets.
Midtown: Popular with young professionals moving to Omaha, Midtown is a mix of contemporary apartments and condos with older homes. The Midtown Crossing entertainment district is home to some of the best restaurants in Omaha, as well as unique retail outlets. Midtown is the site of the Jazz on the Green festival each summer.
Dundee: Considered Omaha’s first suburb, Dundee is home to classic apartments, as well as modern outlets. With fantastic local eateries, such as Ahmad’s Persian Café, Saddle Creek Breakfast Club and J. Coco, calling the area home, it’s one of the city’s best dining areas. It’s also home to Warren Buffett, whose house in Happy Hollow borders the neighborhood.
Blackstone: Nestled between Midtown and Dundee, Blackstone is one of Omaha’s newest entertainment districts. Heavy on restaurants and bars, such as Noli’s Pizzeria and Butterfish, it also offers excellent spots to relax and enjoy a treat or coffee at Coneflower Creamery and Archetype Coffee.
The pros of moving to Omaha
Omaha offers people excellent attractions, restaurants, outdoor activities and a sports scene that makes other cities jealous. With plans to expand the riverfront, downtown Omaha will rank as one of the most beautiful and fun areas in the Midwest. Here are three reasons why you’ll enjoy moving to Omaha.
Excellent employment opportunities
With one of the lowest unemployment rates in the United States at less than 5 percent, Omaha is home to major leaders in healthcare, transportation, agriculture and insurance. Several people moving to Omaha are with companies, such as Union Pacific, Pacific Life and Aflac.
Tech companies are finding their way to Omaha, with the city earning the nickname “Silicon Prairie,” as Facebook and Google are among companies opening data centers in the area.
Enjoy the commute
Nicknamed the “15-minute City,” Omaha is easy to get around. The commute is actually about 20 minutes, as the city grows and expands its boundary westward. Regardless, the main thoroughfares, such as Dodge, Maple, Pacific and Center streets, run east-west, while the interstate system continues to add lanes to ease morning and afternoon commute issues.
The cost of living is a huge plus
With a cost of living index rating of 93.4, among the best in the United States, moving to Omaha benefits you financially. Everything tends to cost less here than in other cities of similar size, such as groceries, utilities, rent and gasoline. You can enjoy an evening out on the town without worrying about mortgaging the farm.
The cons of moving to Omaha
While Omaha enjoys economic success, the city faces challenges to keep its young professionals in the area, among other issues. Here are three areas of concern when considering moving to Omaha.
Lack of diversity
Whites make up about 66 percent of the population, while the African American community is the largest ethnic minority, accounting for about 12 percent of the city’s population. Hispanics make up about 11 percent, while Asian Americans and Native Americans account for about four percent.
While Omaha hasn’t experienced racial tensions like other cities, people have targeted minorities as a way of gaining political power, including focusing on undocumented workers or perceived high crime rates. Minority residents have protested unfair treatment by law enforcement and the court system.
Public transportation is a challenge
Omaha is a car city. Without a vehicle, you’ll be challenged to easily get around town. While Uber and Lyft are successful in Omaha, the city’s public transportation system is lacking for many residents.
With bus routes that run east-west, focusing on stops toward downtown, the Metro Transit system doesn’t run 24/7, which impacts people who prefer using public transportation. The new ORBT route runs from the Westroads Mall to downtown, but again, it’s not designed for 24/7 service.
Winter can be severe
Winters in Omaha are hit-or-miss — it may snow a lot or just a few inches. However, when it gets cold and snowy, traffic comes to a standstill. Literally. You’ll find parking lots on some of the main routes, because, as people joke, “two inches of snow shuts down the city.” Snow removal is an annual challenge, as well as the potholes that come with the winter season.
How to get started on your move to Omaha
Omaha’s attractions, culinary scene, sports community and commute are winning factors to consider when it comes to moving to Omaha. Regardless of the neighborhood you choose to call home, you’ll only be minutes from most major attractions, parks and restaurants.
To assist with your move as you pack up to head to the Big O, visit our Moving Center to get free quotes and more information about planning your move. Also check out available apartments for rent and homes for sale – you can’t move if you don’t have a place to live, after all.
Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory of one-bedroom apartments. Data was pulled in December 2020 and goes back for one year. We use a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each individual unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.
Population and income numbers are from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Cost of living data comes from the Council for Community and Economic Research.
The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.
Tim is an Omaha-based freelance writer, online content creator and author who loves exploring the Midwest and beyond. In addition to writing The Walking Tourists travel blog, he has co-authored three books with his wife, Lisa: 100 Things to Do in Omaha Before You Die, Unique Eats and Eateries of Omaha, and 100 Things to Do in Nebraska Before You Die. Tim is a dad to two daughters and three cat sons. He is an avid sports fan, primarily enjoying football and hockey.
You’ll immediately feel at home when moving to one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis. Neighbors will hold doors open, let you cut in line and say, “Thank you.” A lot.
People here will also politely tell you that the Twin Cities consist of Minneapolis and St. Paul, along with dozens of suburbs, if you mistakenly call Minneapolis the Twin Cities.
They’ll also give you plenty of advice when looking for a great neighborhood for you to hang your (hopefully) Vikings hat.
Here’s a look at some of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis.
Named after Marge Armatage, the first woman elected to a Minneapolis public office after winning her race for the Board of Park Commissioners in 1921, the neighborhood in southwest Minneapolis honored her by naming a park after her. With walking paths, ice rinks and more, the park is a key attraction in the neighborhood.
A friendly area, Armatage is great for families and couples. Close to the Southdale shopping center, as well as local coffee houses such as Sparrow Coffee, it’s easy to feel at home and part of the neighborhood.
Located in northeast Minneapolis, Audubon Park honors famed naturalist John James Audubon. Featuring an urban feel of about 5,000 residents, the neighborhood is home to Audubon Park, offering a natural getaway with walking trails among tall trees. As part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, the trail runs through the area near Deming Heights Park.
The iconic Hollywood Theater called the area home during its heyday and locals seek to revitalize the nearly 90-year-old Art Deco building.
Locals enjoy grabbing a meal or takeout from the Holy Land Bakery, Grocery and Deli, where you can enjoy Mediterranean items. Spyhouse Coffee is a great spot to grab a cup of locally roast brew.
With the downtown skyline in the background, the Bryn Mawr neighborhood is home to Theodore Wirth Park, the largest park in Minneapolis. You’ll find an 18-hole golf course, a disc course and ample trails perfect for cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing during the winter. The area is also part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway.
While a quiet, quaint neighborhood with friendly residents, Bryn Mawr has easy access to downtown Minneapolis, as well as shopping and dining, such as Cockadoodledo Gifts, offering a mix of vintage and contemporary items. Cuppa Java is an excellent spot for a warm drink and a quick bite.
Bordering three lakes, the Cedar Isles-Dean neighborhood is one of the more affluent areas of Minneapolis, with most residents earning more than $100,000. The neighborhood takes its name from two of its lakes, Cedar Lake and Lake of the Isles, and the Dean Parkway, which runs through the middle of the district.
The third lake, Bde Maka Ska (Dakota for Lake White Earth), is the largest body of water in Minneapolis. You’ll often find sailboats among the kayaks, canoes and motorboats patrolling the waters during summer.
Architecture enthusiasts will want to drive by the Freida and Henry J. Neils House, named for its original owners and a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The L-shaped one-story house was built in Wright’s Usonian style, a name he gave the design he considered defining the United States.
The population of about 3,000 residents can enjoy shopping at outlets, such as Greenway Lakes Commons and Cedar Commons.
With the Mississippi River as one of its borders, Downtown East is a fantastic neighborhood to call home. With the Mill City Museum and the nearby Stone Arch Bridge as attractions, you can also catch concerts and shows at the Guthrie Theater. The Minnesota Vikings play at U.S. Bank Stadium, which is in the heart of the neighborhood. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy checking out older buildings, such as City Hall.
A popular neighborhood for younger professionals, Downtown East is home to Day Block Brewing Company, a popular watering hole and restaurant. Locals also enjoy dining at Sawatdee, a neighborhood favorite since the mid-1980s.
With nearly 5,800 residents, Downtown West is the heartbeat of downtown, home to several corporations. Nicollet Mall runs about 12 blocks long on the neighborhood’s northwest side and includes several restaurants, such as The News Room. A popular attraction along Nicollet near 7th Street is the statue of Mary Tyler Moore. Erected in 2002 to celebrate the star of the hit show based in Minneapolis, it’s a great spot for selfies.
The Walker Art Center borders the neighborhood on the north end. With its contemporary art pieces and its famous sculpture garden — starring the often-photographed Spoonbridge (Spoon with a cherry) — the art center is a fun place to visit and enjoy a walk.
Downtown West is a great neighborhood for singles and young couples. Situated near Loring Park, Downtown West is a politically liberal and LGBT-friendly area.
Once a farm community, King Field has grown into a neighborhood popular with young professionals and couples. With farmers markets and unique dining experiences, such as Cuban at Victor’s 1959 Café or Filipino at Apoy, the area is sure to challenge your palate. King Field features ample free parking at several establishments, as well as free bus rides along Nicollet Mall. You can visit with friends over coffee at Five Watt Coffee.
History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts love calling the Linden Hills neighborhood home. Between museums, such as the Minnesota Streetcar Museum and Bakken Museum, you can learn about the area’s history. Living along Bde Maka Ska, the largest lake in Minneapolis and part of the Chain of Lakes, outdoor activity is almost unlimited, with three miles of trails and plenty of water activities, such as swimming and boating.
A neighborhood popular with families, couples and young professionals, it’s easy to find outstanding dining options, such as Martina, with its Italian cuisine, and Old Southern BBQ. Locals also enjoy unique shopping opportunities, including Wild Rumpus, a book store with a unique story.
Loring Park has long been a gathering spot for Minneapolis residents. Home to major celebrations, including the Gay Pride Festival and the Loring Park Art Fair, the area is one of the most beautiful in the Twin Cities. With the country’s first basilica — Basilica of St. Mary — you can take in its Beaux-Arts architecture and ornamental art inside the church.
For more than 80 years, the Walker Art Center has provided a taste of art and culture to the neighborhood, with several exhibits inside the building and amazing sculptures outside in the sculpture garden. You’ll find the world-famous Spoonbridge (spoon and cherry) in the heart of the garden.
With unique restaurants, such as Lotus Restaurant — offering its take on Vietnamese cuisine — and Café Lurcat, bringing a nouveau twist to American fare.
Only a few minutes west of downtown, the Lowry Hill neighborhood is the perfect spot for young professionals, couples and families. With local parks offering walking paths, areas to relax and spend time outdoors, the area started as a rural community. Today, the nearby Walker Art Center hosts the annual Rock the Garden Festival.
Whether they prefer pancakes for breakfast or a burger for dinner, The Lowry is a popular choice for locals. Enjoy local craft beer at Sisyphus Brewing, where they also host weekly stand-up comedy shows.
There’s seemingly a little of everything in the Lyn Lake neighborhood of Minneapolis. The community’s hot spots meet at the intersection of Lake Street and Lyndale Avenue. With a plethora of dining establishments, such as World Street Kitchen, which grew from a food truck and features almost everything from Asian and Mediterranean to Caribbean, the neighborhood is a great place to sample amazing menus.
An area popular with young professionals, couples and singles, Lyn Lake offers unique neighborhood gems, such as Bryant Lake Bowl and Theater, where you can bowl 10 frames or catch a show. Up-Down Minneapolis features 50 vintage arcade games from the 1980s-90s, as well as a variety of beer on tap for a fun-filled trip down memory lane.
A family-friendly neighborhood, Lynnhurst features plenty of fun activities for all ages. Centrally located in Minneapolis, residents have easy access to public parks and trails, such as Minnehaha Creek Park, home to canoeing, hiking and picnicking. The Lynnhurst Recreation Center offers youth activities, sports leagues and an ice skating rink.
Lake Harriet Pizza is a popular choice for pizza night, as the eatery creates craft pizzas for takeout or delivery. Couples enjoy dining at Broders’ Pasta Bar, as well as a twist on Mexican cuisine at Colita, where you can sample lamb barbacoa tacos.
Named for nearby Lake Nokomis, this neighborhood is perfect for outdoor activities. Anchoring one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Falls is a major attraction in Nokomis. While you can canoe Minnehaha Creek, you’ll want to hike the trail that takes you within a few feet of the 53-foot-tall waterfall.
With trails that offer fun winter sports, such as cross country skiing or snow-shoeing, the area is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Longfellow Gardens also offers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with a walk through the botanical garden.
Popular with locals and tourists, Matt’s Bar and Grill is the home of the Jucy Lucy since 1954, two burgers cooked around a small block of cheese that melts as they cook. It’s best to let the Jucy Lucy sit for a few minutes, so you don’t burn your mouth with the first bite as the cheese oozes out.
Considered one of the most “hipster” neighborhoods in the city, North Loop has grown from an old, dilapidated warehouse district to a vibrant art and entertainment area, home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars and retail outlets.
From eateries, such as Parlour and North Loop Galley, to bars, including Kieran’s Irish Pub, and shops such as Statement Boutique and Grethen House, North Loop is an exciting neighborhood for young professionals, couples and singles looking to live in a thriving area.
Sports fans will enjoy catching a Twins baseball game at Target Field or Timberwolves and Lynx hoops at Target Center.
A neighborhood that mixes the old with the new, Northeast Minneapolis is an art lover’s dream community. For more than 25 years, nearly 1,000 artists have gathered for one of the largest outdoor art studio tours in the country, as Art-a-Whirl calls Northeast Minneapolis home. With the neighborhood’s European-style cobblestone streets, the area is one of the most walkable in the Twin Cities.
Outdoor enthusiasts love visiting Boom Island Park, with hiking and biking trails, as well as picnicking spots. Once used as a logging station, the park is a favorite with locals, offering great views of the area.
As Northeast Minneapolis has developed, the area has become home to some of the most popular restaurants in the area, including Hai Hai, which features Southeast Asian cuisine, and Betty Danger’s Country Club, known for its outdoor Ferris wheel. The neighborhood is also home to outstanding craft breweries, such as Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative.
With restaurants, such as Young Man and its Asian menu highlighting Hawaiian, Indonesian and Japanese cuisine, Southwest Minneapolis is an active, vibrant community open to a variety of backgrounds.
A popular area with young professionals, couples and single people, Southwest Minneapolis invites residents to check out unique attractions, such as Game Show Battle Rooms, which matches teams in a classic game show escape rooms. Lake Harriet is a popular spot with boating, swimming and winter sports.
Within walking distance of the University of Minnesota, St. Anthony West is also close to downtown Minneapolis, which professionals and retirees both find inviting. Located in one of the oldest and best neighborhoods in Minneapolis, St. Anthony West is home to Boom Island Park, a popular spot for hiking and biking.
Residents enjoy catching a light, relaxing dinner at Aster Café, with its menu featuring beet salad, shawarma bowl and brisket tacos. Before or after catching a movie at the historic St. Anthony Main Theatre, grab a bite and a glass of wine at Pracna on Main, one of the city’s oldest restaurants.
Offering an eclectic array of attractions and restaurants, who doesn’t want to live in the Uptown neighborhood? With Uptown Theatre and bars, such as The Fremont, the area attracts young professionals and college students, creating one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis.
At the same time, older couples and retirees enjoy the area and its easy access to parks and lakes, such as Bde Maka Ska and Cedar Lake, but also the restaurants, including Barbette and dishes, such as sweet potato risotto.
With its namesake park as the neighborhood anchor, Waite Park is definitely a residential neighborhood. Most restaurants and shopping opportunities are in neighboring districts, such as Audubon Park and Northeast Minneapolis. The area is an excellent residential area for families, couples, and young professionals, who enjoy a quiet lifestyle, with plenty of walking and biking opportunities.
With a diverse population, the Whittier neighborhood has been known through the years for an eclectic feel. The area’s art scene is strong, with the Minneapolis Institute of Art and Walker Art Center near the neighborhood. The Hennepin History Museum offers a look at the county’s past.
Popular with young professionals and couples, Nicollet Avenue offers several choices for dining, with restaurants such as Icehouse, which features American fare, along with drinks and music, and Quang, which offers a Vietnamese menu.
Moving to Minneapolis
As you plan your move to Minnesota’s largest city, look for the neighborhood that appeals to you the most. Is it being close to work? Or, maybe you prefer sports, arts or being outdoors. Whatever your interest, Minneapolis has the perfect home for you.
What makes a city a great food city? Well, just like with any dish, it takes the right ingredients, which can vary. Perhaps the city is located in an agriculturally-rich area. Or the city is a diverse melting pot, creating a place for expression and creativity where chefs can share recipes from around the world or experiment with fusion cuisines. It also needs to have well-stocked grocers that carry specialty items.
No matter what, a great food city should be a place where chefs are supported by a population that loves dining out and supporting local restaurants. Whether you’re a chef looking for where to launch your next venture, or a food lover looking for the next big thing, here are the best cities for chefs to practice their craft.
Finding the best cities for chefs
So then, where do chefs thrive? There are different factors to consider, like grocery cost, population size and specialty stores where chefs can source high-quality ingredients. Taking all those into account, here are the ten best cities for chefs.
10. Grand Rapids, MI
While Grand Rapids may not immediately jump off the page as a great dining destination, you’d be surprised. There’s a robust craft brewing scene, top-notch cafes and a range of beloved, non-chain dining options.
Sourcing fish and seafood from the nearby Great Lakes and using area farms for fresh produce, seasonality is key. Chefs can even dine where they shop. They can tuck into fish and chips at fishmonger and restaurant Fish Lads, or grab a bite at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market while also shopping for produce, olive oil or spices.
Groceries are also the most affordable of all the cities in the top ten. Not only do chefs get to experiment with fresh, regional ingredients in Grand Rapids, but it’s extremely affordable to do so.
9. Santa Fe, NM
With its blend of cultural influences, the food scene in Santa Fe is unparalleled in the Southwest. With Native and Hispanic cuisines leading the playbill, an excellent supporting cast of other global offerings like Indian and Italian rounds it out. And lovers of spicy food find themselves falling under the spell of New Mexico’s famed Hatch green chiles, which feature heavily in local cuisine.
Against such a gastronomically diverse background, chefs also have a wide range of markets and grocers to choose from. There are 0.23 specialty grocers and 0.5 markets per 10,000 residents. So with a population of over 85,000, there are options aplenty. And that population, plus robust summer tourism crowds in Santa Fe, are only too happy to support local chefs.
8. Napa, CA
Ah, Napa.
As the seat of California wine country, this town of just over 78,000 would naturally be a great place for chefs to create exceptional meals. With a strong focus on high-end fares like Italian, French and New American, there’s an incredible variety of tastes to try. And experimenting with pairing with local wines is another plus.
The area’s agricultural history and current reputation for viticulture give Napa chefs easy access to locally-grown, fresh foodstuffs at local markets and grocers. With 0.89 markets per 10,000 residents, chefs can find everything from fresh produce to meats at spots like the Oxbow Public Market. There are also 23 non-chain establishments per capita, making it incredibly easy to support the local restaurant community.
7. Conroe, TX
Sitting on edge of Lake Conroe, the 91,000-population town of Conroe is a lakeside slice of country living within driving distance of Houston. As with many smaller towns, community and hospitality are important. So the local dining is heavily focused on family-run, feel-good food and service. Obviously, barbecue is huge here, as well as Mexican.
Chefs have their pick of the litter when it comes to specialty markets and grocers, with 0.54 grocers and 0.21 markets per 10,000 residents. And the cost of groceries is one of the lowest on the top ten list, so chefs in Conroe can prepare excellent food on a reasonable budget.
6. Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati chili. Reuben sandwiches. Ice cream. Gooey pizza. Tender ribs. If you love big food with big, bombastic flavor, Cincinnati is the place. From regional treasures like Cincinnati-style chili, which is piled on top of spaghetti or hot dogs, to creative riffs on classics like burgers, chefs here love going big.
As a larger city, grocery costs are elevated, but there’s an abundance of markets and grocers. With 0.42 markets per capita and 0.16 grocers, in a city of over 300,000, there’s always something fresh and delicious close by for chefs to work with. From getting meats and produce at Country Farm Fresh Market to finding global flavors and fun at the famed Jungle Jim’s International Market, accessing the best ingredients is never an issue.
Cincinnati also ranks among the top cities with the most non-chain dining establishments in the top 10. So if you’re a chef looking for a place that welcomes bold flavor and never-say-die energy, head to the Queen City.
5. Asheville, NC
Over the past decade, the Blue Ridge Mountains-based Asheville has emerged as North Carolina’s preeminent food city. This scenic mountain hideaway has it all, from excellent craft brews and comforting Southern fare to elevated fine dining. This dedication to authentic food in all its forms has created a restaurant scene with 35 non-chain restaurants per 10,000 residents.
As a food scene that revels in experimentation and pushing the envelope, chefs in Asheville have an environment in which they can creatively grow and thrive. And the local supply options support that as well, with 0.21 grocers and markets per capita. And don’t forget to try that famous North Carolina barbecue!
4. Pensacola, FL
For seafood chefs seeking new stomping grounds, Pensacola, on the far western end of Florida’s panhandle, has enough attributes to crack the top five best cities for chefs. Sitting right on the edge of Pensacola Bay, fresh seafood is always within reach. The local food scene is rich with delicious seafood spots, as well as Southern and global fare.
With 0.94 markets per capita, chefs can head to specialty stores like Joe Patti’s Seafood and Four Winds International Market for both local and far-flung ingredients. And at 54 non-chain restaurants per 10,000 people, there are plenty of options for the nearly 53,000 residents of Pensacola.
3. West Des Moines, IA
Image source: Rent. / Sun Prairie Apartments
Betcha didn’t know just how vital Iowa is to U.S. agriculture. The Hawkeye State is the nation’s biggest producer of eggs, corn and pork. It also produces 14 percent of cattle in the United States, giving us tender flavorful steaks and beef. With such high-quality produce and meat, it’s no wonder chefs and meat lovers can have a field day here.
In West Des Moines, which forms the western edge of greater Des Moines, chefs will find a particularly hospitable environment for their craft. There’s an abundance of specialty grocers to choose from, like Fresh Thyme Market, providing quality meats, produce and other ingredients. Dining-wise, chefs can express themselves at classic steakhouses and casual brewpubs or branch out into other meat-heavy cuisines like Brazilian. There’s also great Mexican and Asian dining to be found in West Des Moines.
2. Marietta, GA
Snagging second-place for best cities for chefs is the 60,867-strong city of Marietta. Sitting northwest of Atlanta, Marietta is home to a hidden gem food scene. There’s something for everyone, from home-style Southern and farm-to-table to traditional Latin American cuisines.
This gives chefs a large playing field, allowing them to carry on the treasured culinary traditions to American diners, craft dishes from around the world or create exciting combos. Shopping is done at established specialty grocers like Cajun Meat Company, and with 1.15 markets per 10,000 residents, there’s plenty to go around.
One caveat: The cost of groceries is the highest of all the cities on the top 10 list.
1. Greenville, SC
The surrounding states must look on South Carolina with envy, as it’s home to two of the South’s best food cities. First, there’s Charleston (one of our best cities for brunch), and then, No. 1 on the list of the best cities for chefs, is Greenville.
This up-and-coming foodie haven has everything from top-tier Southern comfort food to sophisticated fine dining. Chefs can have fun with flavor at casual neighborhood spots, or get creative with elegant plating at high-end restaurants. And while grocery cost is second only to Marietta on this list, the local population is extremely supportive of their dining scene. There are 59 non-chain restaurants per 10,000 residents, so it’s plain to see that the inhabitants of Greenville love dining out and eating well. Here, chefs are sure to find a supportive and loving audience for whatever they want to cook.
The top 50 cities for chefs
Want to expand your cooking and culinary horizons beyond the top ten? There are many other options for chefs to choose from, as you’ll see from the top 50.
Methodology
To determine the best cities for chefs, we looked at all cities with at least 50,000 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 estimates that had at least one specialty grocer, market and non-chain (local) restaurant. That final list included 386 cities spread all across the country. We then ranked each city by the following factors:
The average cost of groceries: The cost of an average grocery bill in the metro area of each city according to cost of living estimates from the Council for Community and Economic Research.
Specialty markets: Per capita and business density calculations in each city from a list of commercially licensed business data. Specialty markets include ethnic, organic and health food.
Food markets: Per capita and business density calculations in each city from a list of commercially licensed business data. Food markets include butchers and farmers markets.
Local restaurants: Per capita and business density calculations in each city from a list of commercially licensed business data. Local restaurants include all dining establishments that are labeled as non-chain.
Each of these factors was weighted equally, and the cities with the best overall score were determined to be the best cities for chefs.
Minority-owned banks and credit unions, classified as Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) by government agencies, are financial institutions where most board members or stockholders are people of color.
MDIs play a crucial role in helping underserved communities. While such institutions don’t solely lend to minorities, they tend to provide more loans and accounts to minority communities than non-minority-owned banks do, according to data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. This is particularly important because members of minority communities, like African Americans, often lack access to financial services and are typically underserved by financial institutions.
Supporting Black-owned or Black-led financial institutions and lenders by doing business with them can help minority communities economically.
Black-owned and Black-led auto lenders
Note that the lenders are listed alphabetically.
Adelphi Bank
Primary location(s): Columbus, Ohio
Good for: Borrowers in Franklin County, Ohio, who want to bank with an institution that empowers the local community. Note that Adelphi is a newer institution that primarily provides commercial lending and, according to a spokesperson for the bank, has only approved a handful of auto loans thus far.
Alamerica Bank
Primary location(s): Birmingham, Alabama
Good for: Residents of Birmingham, Alabama, with great credit scores. Alamerica only provides auto loans under exceptional conditions, and applicants must have good credit scores to apply. The bank does not offer prequalification and does not provide refinance loans.
Andrews Federal Credit Union
Primary location(s): Maryland, New Jersey, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Good for: Military service members based on the East Coast. The credit union also serves nonmilitary personnel who meet other eligibility requirements, like working for one of its employer groups. In addition to loans for traditional vehicles, AFCU offers financing for new and used boats, motorcycles and recreational vehicles (RVs).
Citizens Trust Bank
Primary location(s): Alabama and Georgia
Good for: Veterans and first-time car buyers in Alabama and Georgia. Citizens also offers auto refinance loans. While any U.S. resident can apply for a credit card with the credit union, only residents of Georgia or Alabama can apply for consumer loans, like auto loans, through the institution.
Commonwealth National Bank
Primary location(s): Mobile, Alabama
Good for: Residents of Mobile, Alabama, who want to borrow from a local institution. The bank provides loans for all borrowers, with a particular focus on serving its historically underserved African American community. Commonwealth National Bank offers vehicle loans for up to 90% of the vehicle’s value, according to a spokesperson for the bank, and also offers auto loans for motorcycles, motor homes, campers, travel trailers, boats, personal water-crafts and more.
Democracy Federal Credit Union
Primary location(s): Maryland, Virgina and Washington, D.C.
Good for: Borrowers in the D.C. metro area who want a variety of auto loan options and the benefits of credit union membership. In addition to new and used purchase loans, the credit union offers refinance loans and lease buyout loans. Democracy also offers additional benefits like GAP insurance and an auto advantage program that extends borrowers’ manufacturer warranties.
First Independence Bank
Primary location(s): Detroit, Michigan, and Minneapolis, Minnesota
Good for: Detroit or Minneapolis applicants seeking a preapproved car loan with a local bank.First Independence provides car loans as well as financing for recreational vehicles like campers, motorcycles, motor homes, snowmobiles and travel trailers.
First Security Bank and Trust Company
Primary location(s): Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Good for: Auto loan borrowers in Oklahoma City who want to support the institution’s mission of serving minority communities in the area. The bank gives new and used car loans, as well as refinancing loans.
Primary location(s): Chicago, Illinois
Good for: Individuals who live in Chicago’s South Side community. The bank’s website notes that it aims to serve communities outside of Chicago, in Illinois and nationwide, in the future.
Hope Federal Credit Union
Primary location(s): Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
Good for: Borrowers in these southern states with limited or no credit history looking for flexible auto loan terms. Hope also provides financing for RVs, boats and all-terrain vehicles.
Good for: Borrowers in primary locations that the bank serves seeking flexible new and used-car auto loans. Consumers can apply for a Liberty auto loan online or at a local branch. Some of the bank’s auto loan features include the ability to make fixed monthly payments, no prepayment penalty and a credit decision within hours of application.
Mechanics & Farmers Bank
Primary location(s): North Carolina
Good for: North Carolina borrowers who want to buy new or used cars between $7,500 and $75,000. The bank also offers auto loan refinancing. M&F has an “Outstanding” Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) rating from the FDIC, which means that it has maintained a record of meeting the needs of the low to moderate-income communities that it serves.
Municipal Employees Credit Union
Primary location(s): Maryland
Good for: Auto loan applicants in the greater Baltimore region wanting the convenience of an online car buying service and the benefits of credit union membership. Municipal members can use its online vehicle shopping service AutoSMART to search for and compare new and used cars at dealers near them. The credit union provides financing for new and used cars, as well as auto refinance loans.
Optus Bank
Primary location(s): Columbia, South Carolina
Good for: South Carolina residents, particularly those who are historically underserved people and those who were previously unbanked or underbanked.
SecurityPlus Federal Credit Union
Primary location(s): Baltimore and Ownings Mill, Maryland
Good for: Applicants who want flexible auto loan terms and rate discounts. The credit union provides new and used car loans with loan terms ranging from less than 12 months up to 84 months. SecurityPlus also features a 0.25% APR discount for setting up automatic payments.
St. Louis Community Credit Union
Primary location(s): St. Louis County, Missouri
Good for: Applicants in St. Louis County seeking a variety of auto lending options. The credit union offers new and used car loans, both external and internal refinance loans, as well as cash-out refinancing, private party loans and lease buyout loans.
Unity National Bank of Houston
Primary location(s): Texas and Georgia
Good for: Individuals in the bank’s service areas who want a preapproved auto loan from a local institution.
Methodology:We created this index of auto lenders based on lists of “minority depository institutions,” or MDIs, from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and the National Credit Union Administration. The FDIC considers a bank or financial institution to be a MDI if at least 51% of its stockholders are “minority individuals” or most of its board of directors and the community it serves are minorities. The NCUA considers a credit union to be a MDI if more than 20% of its current members, board members and community it serves are Asian American, Black American, Hispanic American or Native American.
Despite decades of anti-discrimination legislation and other efforts to fight redlining, create fair lending, and ban racial and other bias, housing discrimination can still exist in many markets throughout the country, especially for first-time homebuyers.
It can be subtle or overt. Either way, housing discrimination holds people of color, immigrants, families with children, and LGBTQ people back by denying them access to safe neighborhoods, good schools, and the generational wealth that comes with homeownership.
This guide offers more information on housing discrimination and what to do if it happens to you.
What Is Housing Discrimination?
Federal law defines housing discrimination as discrimination concerned with renting or buying a property based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, or disability. In other words, if anyone in the house-hunting or mortgage loan process treats a person buying, renting, or selling housing differently because of any of these reasons, they are breaking the law.
Whether first-time homebuyers are buying a starter home or upsizing, they may want to fine-tune their anti-bias antennas and know the laws. 💡 Quick Tip: You deserve a more zen mortgage loan. When you buy a home, SoFi offers a guarantee that your loan will close on time. Backed by a $5,000 credit.‡
Housing Discrimination Examples
Housing discrimination comes in many forms. It could be a landlord who charges higher fees to renters with children, a real estate agent who refuses to show immigrants homes in certain neighborhoods, or a buyer offering less because of the seller’s race.
What’s more, housing discrimination can be subtle, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), making it difficult to prove and punish. Here are examples of subtle housing discrimination described on HUD’s website:
An African American man speaks on the phone to a landlord who seems eager to rent to him. But when the man meets with the landlord to fill out the application, the landlord’s attitude is different. A few days later, the potential renter receives a letter saying his application was denied because of a bad reference from his current landlord. But his current landlord says he was never contacted.
An Asian man meets with a real estate broker because he is interested in purchasing a house for his family in a specific neighborhood. When he mentions the neighborhood, the broker tells the Asian man that she has wonderful listings in a neighborhood where there are more people like him. When he looks at houses in the neighborhood she recommends, he notices that the majority of residents are Asian. The man files a complaint. Steering buyers to certain neighborhoods because of race is illegal.
Sexual harassment, failure to comply with accessibility requirements, and rules against renting or selling to families with children are also discriminatory.
Equal Opportunity Housing Laws to Know
Housing discrimination by sellers, lenders, and landlords based on race, color, religion, or nationality has been illegal since Congress passed the Fair Housing Act in 1968. The act was expanded in 1974 to include gender and in 1988 to include families with children and people with disabilities. Additional laws concerning discrimination in mortgage lending are included in the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, passed in 1974.
Some situations are exempt from the Fair Housing Act. These include some types of senior housing and housing operated by religious organizations and private clubs. Single-family rental homes are also exempt as long as the landlord does not own more than three homes and does not advertise or broker the rentals. Owner-occupied properties with four or fewer rental units are not governed by the Fair Housing Act.
States and local jurisdictions may have additional laws regarding housing discrimination. For instance, many states and cities ban discrimination based on age, criminal history, immigration status, marital status, or sexual orientation.
In 2020 the Trump administration made several changes to HUD regulations, making it more complicated for people to prove they are victims of housing discrimination. Specifically, victims had to go to great lengths to show that the discrimination was intentional. In early 2021, President Joe Biden signed executive orders aimed at reversing those changes. Housing discrimination continues, however, and in 2023, HUD announced that it was making $30 million in additional funding available to state and local fair housing enforcement agencies across the country to help fight discriminatory practices.
What to Do About Potential Discrimination
First, become familiar with the federal, state, and local laws that may apply. Knowing the laws and how they work is vital to filing an effective complaint and getting a successful outcome.
If you think you are a victim of housing or mortgage lending discrimination, you can file a federal complaint with the HUD Office of Fair Housing Equal Opportunity (FHEO). This office investigates claims concerning any of the protected classes specified in the Fair Housing Act. You can file a complaint online or mail the complaint form to your regional HUD office or call the Housing Discrimination Hotline at 800-669-9777. The complaint form is available in nine languages, including English and Spanish, and any retaliation for filing a complaint is illegal.
The FHEO is supposed to investigate complaints within 100 days. Sometimes complaints prompt the U.S. Department of Justice to file lawsuits against people or companies that may have violated the law.
You may also want to file a complaint with your state attorney general’s civil rights bureau or your city’s civil rights or fair housing commission. This may be more effective than filing solely with the FHEO, especially in areas with extensive housing discrimination regulations. To find out where to file a complaint in your area, start with the National Fair Housing Alliance website for a list of local agencies.
In addition to the FHEO, mortgage lending discrimination complaints can be filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better loan terms you’ll be offered. One way to improve your ratio is to increase your income (hello, side hustle!). Another way is to consolidate your debt and lower your monthly debt payments.
How to Make Your Case Proving Housing Discrimination
Extensive documentation can help prove housing discrimination. When you are talking to real estate agents, sellers, landlords, or lenders, it’s a good idea to listen carefully and take notes during each conversation. HUD officials suggest looking for what they call red-flag language. This may occur when a real estate agent is trying to steer you away from or into a particular neighborhood. Phrases such as “This wouldn’t be a good fit for you” or “You’d be happier in this other neighborhood” can be red flags.
If you feel you are being “steered,” you can do an online search to learn if a broker failed to show all of the houses in the local housing market in your price range.
If you suspect lending discrimination, such as being quoted a higher rate than you expected, you can check the posted rates online at that mortgage lender and others to see how they compare. You can take screenshots or print this information.
Keep an eye out for and document surprising obstacles that come up in the home buying or renting process. Perhaps a landlord, seller, or agent has said a property is not available but then you find that it is still on the market weeks later. Or maybe your application to purchase a co-op is denied, but you aren’t given a specific reason why. These may be signs of discrimination. You’ll want to document the situation with dated notes from your conversations and screenshots or copies of the ads showing the property still available after you were turned down.
Local housing advocacy and human rights groups also offer help. Organizations such as the Fair Housing Justice Center may help you conduct tests using volunteers of different races to test for disparate treatment in specific locations. These tests can also provide compelling evidence for your case.
Recommended: Home Affordability Calculator
The Takeaway
Longstanding laws and regulations are not enough to eradicate housing discrimination, but informed buyers and renters can fight back. Make sure you advocate for yourself at every stage of the process.
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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
‡SoFi On-Time Close Guarantee: If all conditions of the Guarantee are met, and your loan does not close on or before the closing date on your purchase contract accepted by SoFi, and the delay is due to SoFi, SoFi will provide you $2,000.^ Terms and conditions apply. This Guarantee is available only for loan applications submitted after 6/15/22 for the purchase of a primary residence. Please discuss terms of this Guarantee with your loan officer. The property must be owner-occupied, single-family residence (no condos), and the loan amount must meet the Fannie Mae conventional guidelines. No bank-owned or short-sale transactions. To qualify for the Guarantee, you must: (1) Have employment income supported by W-2, (2) Receive written approval by SoFi for the loan and you lock the rate, (3) submit an executed purchase contract on an eligible property at least 30 days prior to the closing date in the purchase contract, (4) provide to SoFi (by upload) all required documentation within 24 hours of SoFi requesting your documentation and upload any follow-up required documents within 36 hours of the request, and (5) pay for and schedule an appraisal within 48 hours of the appraiser first contacting you by phone or email. The Guarantee will be void and not paid if any delays to closing are due to factors outside of SoFi control, including delays scheduling or completing the appraisal appointment, appraised value disputes, completing a property inspection, making repairs to the property by any party, addressing possible title defects, natural disasters, further negotiation of or changes to the purchase contract, changes to the loan terms, or changes in borrower’s eligibility for the loan (e.g., changes in credit profile or employment), or if property purchase does not occur. SoFi may change or terminate this offer at any time without notice to you. ^To redeem the Guarantee if conditions met, see documentation provided by loan officer.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
RICHLAND TWP., Pa. – Eagles, Flyers, 76ers and Phillies fans will soon have a new spot to score jerseys, hats and other fan gear in upper Bucks County.
Rally House, a specialty sports store chain offering an expansive selection of apparel, gifts, home decor and other types of merchandise representing local NCAA, NFL, NBA, MLB, NFL and MLS teams, is planning to open a new location in a few months at 244 N. West End Blvd. in Richland Township.
The new store will fill the space previously occupied by Tuesday Morning, a home goods retailer, in the Trainer’s Corner shopping center, just outside Quakertown.
“We are opening a new Rally House location in Quakertown and excited to get it open to residents and fans,” stated Colin Novick, Rally House’s media and production manager. “We are aiming to have this store open in early spring in April.”
Rally House traces its origins to 1989, when Tim and Mabel “Peg” Liebert started “Mabel’s Kitchen,” a catalog featuring Kansas-related apparel, gifts and other merchandise.
Mabel’s Kitchen evolved into another business, “Kansas Sampler,” which featured five Kansas City area stores selling Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas State Wildcats, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals gear.
The company experienced great success, and the Lieberts eventually decided to expand the business to other markets under the “Rally House” name in 2008, according to a company description.
Today, Rally House has more than 180 locations across 18 states. The new Quakertown area store will supplement more than a dozen other regional locations, including a Lehigh Valley shop in Lower Macungie Township, two other Bucks County stores and several locations in Montgomery County.
Rally House stays true to its roots by providing “an impeccable selection of local and team-related apparel and gifts, including exclusive designs available only at Rally House,” according to the company’s website.
Regional stores offer a wide array of merchandise, including clothing, blankets, glassware and signs, featuring logos and designs of Philadelphia and surrounding area teams.
Customers at the Lehigh Valley store, for example, can shop plenty of Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers, 76ers and Phillies items, along with merchandise showcasing designs of various regional universities, including Lehigh, Kutztown, Penn State, Temple, Villanova, Drexel, St. Joseph’s and West Chester.
Other area sports teams, including Lehigh Valley IronPigs and Philadelphia Union, are also represented.
Philadelphia area teams are primarily featured, but there is also a selection of merchandise featuring other popular teams such as the New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.
Customers can browse apparel such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, coats and shorts, along with footwear and fashion accessories such as slippers, hats, scarves and jewelry.
A wide variety of other gifts and home décor include items such as glassware, coasters, garden gnomes and flags, foam fingers, stuffed animals, keychains, pens, pennants, ornaments, cornhole boards, trash cans, calendars and umbrellas.
“Much like each person, no two Rally House stores are identical,” a message on the company’s website reads.
“They each carry merchandise customized and tailored to the specific collegiate and professional teams in that area. In additional to team apparel, Rally House offers a wide selection of local styles. This includes our very own exclusive line of RALLY Brand™ merchandise. The same items we have in our stores can also be found online at any time. We want to make things as easy and seamless as possible for fans who want to show their unique team spirit, regardless of wherever they live or shop.”
In addition to selling items relating to local sports teams, Rally House also works in conjunction with local sports stars and celebrities. These partnerships manifest themselves in the form of ticket giveaways, autograph sessions, radio remote contests and meet-and-greet events.
For the latest Rally House updates, follow the business’ pages on Facebook and Instagram. Info: rallyhouse.com.
Allentown updates
New Wawa could take Brass Rail’s spot next to Sheetz
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The Allentown Planning Commission discussed a preliminary/final land development plan for a proposed Wawa convenience store Tuesday afternoon at city hall.
The proposal is offered for 3015 Lehigh St., the site of the former Brass Rail property. The plan involves consolidating two of the three existing lots, demolishing existing features on the consolidated lot and constructing the convenience store.
Should the proposed Wawa come to fruition, it would operate about 100 yards away from a Sheetz convenience store and gas station. Sheetz opened in August 2023 at the southeast corner of Lehigh Street and 29th Street, near Auto Zone. Additional nearby convenience stores and gas stations include a Turkey Hill on the other side of Sheetz and another Wawa about a mile north on Lehigh Street. Full story here.
Downtown Allentown Market welcomes new food vendor, says goodbye to another
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The new year is bringing more changes to the Downtown Allentown Market, with one food vendor recently setting up shop and another bidding farewell.
Joining the 27 N. Seventh St. market is Randevoo, offering a twist on traditional Asian fusion cuisine.
Randevoo held a soft opening on Jan. 5 in space that was previously occupied by two other Asian concepts, Shinsen and Honmono Sushi, the latter of which closed in June following the owner’s move to Florida. Read more here.
Lower Macungie news
Lower Macungie planners recommend approval for Topgolf
L. MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – The Lower Macungie Township Planning Commission recommend approval of a preliminary/final plan of an open-air entertainment facility Tuesday night at the administration building.
The plan, offered by Jaindl Land Co., involves the proposed Topgolf facility at the Lehigh Valley Town Center, slated for 361 Schantz Road and 4511 Cedarbrook Road. The proposed Topgolf and Town Center have already received conditional use approval.
Tuesday night’s recommendation involved the Topgolf facility, which includes a 72-bay golf driving range with a two-story, 20,460-square-foot building and associated parking on 11.5 acres within the Lehigh Valley Town Center. Topgolf will have site access from a private drive in association with the Town Center development. Read more.
New Lehigh County car wash to open later this month, joining 2 sister locations
LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – Drivers looking to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape will soon have a new car wash to frequent in the Lehigh Valley.
The Car Wash on Hamilton, committed to providing customers with a “seamless and efficient car wash experience,” is expected to open by the end of January at 6794 Hamilton Blvd. in Lower Macungie Township.
The newly constructed car wash, totaling around 4,000 square feet, will supplement two sister locations: The Car Wash on Broadway, which opened in 2015 at 4540 Broadway in South Whitehall Township, and The Car Wash on West Main, which opened in October at 200 W. Main St. in Macungie. Full story here.
Bethlehem area buzz
Bethlehem restaurant closes, but owners continuing to serve customers via food trailers
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The owners of a Bethlehem restaurant, serving up burgers, ice cream and more, have closed their eatery to focus on mobile operations.
Husband and wife Norman and Jill Matthews of Bangor have decided to shutter their 3.5-year-old south Bethlehem eatery, Dinky’s Ice Cream Parlor & Grill, and transition to a “completely mobile” business model, according to a post on Dinky’s Facebook page.
“That means we have two trailers, one that is just purely ice cream and the other is a food/ice cream truck,” they announced on the business’ Facebook page. “We will be going to different events, fairs, parties, food truck gatherings and hopefully breweries in the in the surrounding areas. Then we can get caught up with our loyal customers. Read more here.
Family-run restaurant rebrands with new name, look in Bethlehem
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A popular fast-casual eatery, serving “gourmet quality comfort food,” is kicking off the new year with some changes in Northampton County.
Hummus House, a family-run restaurant known for its fresh sandwiches, salads, wraps and more, has rebranded to HandHeldz at 518 E. Third St. on Bethlehem’s South Side.
New signage was installed on Monday, and the business’ first day as HandHeldz was on Tuesday. Read more.
New expansive facility offers prime training space for athletes, teams in Northampton County
BETHLEHEM TWP., Pa. – A new indoor training facility is helping sports teams, clubs and athletes stay at the top of their game in the Lehigh Valley.
Powerballers Athletic Center, offering year-round training opportunities and a top-tier environment where youth and individuals of all ages can passionately pursue and enjoy their sport, opened in late November at 2550 Brodhead Road in Bethlehem Township.
The 14,000-square-foot facility features 10,000 square feet of flexible turf space, over 1,200 square feet of strength training space, batting cages, certified coaches and a climate-controlled environment. Full story here.
Expanding businesses
HiJinx Brewing Company to bring ‘fun and friendly’ vibe to 2nd Lehigh Valley location
A popular Allentown brewery is expanding its footprint in Lehigh County.
HiJinx Brewing Company, producing a wide array of craft beers that include IPAs, pilsners, porters and stouts, on Thursday announced plans to open an additional location at Sports Factory of the Lehigh Valley, 6616 Ruppsville Road, Upper Macungie Township.
The new location will supplement HiJinx’s original taproom and production facility, a 4,000-square-foot venue that opened in 2014 at the Allentown Economic Development Corporation’s Bridgeworks Enterprise Center, 905 Harrison St., Allentown. The brewery is in Suite 111. Read more here.
A-Treat Birch Beer expands as a fountain soda option at more Lehigh Valley restaurants
A month after announcing a partnership with Lehigh Valley hot dog shop chain Yocco’s, Jaindl Beverage Company – owner of A-Treat soda brand – has announced more local venues carrying A-Treat soda on tap.
In addition to being served at all five Yocco’s locations, A-Treat Birch Beer is now available as a fountain drink at Westside Grill in Upper Macungie Township, Wild Turkey Grill (at The Club at Twin Lakes) in North Whitehall Township and Moselem Springs Golf Club in Richmond Township, Berks County.
Westside Grill, Wild Turkey Grill and Moselem Springs Golf Club are owned by Jaindl Land Development. Read more.
Odds and ends
‘The store of the future’: Dave & Buster’s gears up for grand reopening after remodel
WHITEHALL, Pa. – A popular entertainment facility is ready to level up its services in Lehigh County.
Dave & Buster’s, the entertainment and dining chain that invites guests to “eat, drink, play and watch,” on Friday debuted its reimagined Lehigh Valley location on Friday.
The Whitehall Township location, at 1491 MacArthur Road, opened in October 2020 at a Lehigh Valley Mall outparcel, which was previously home to Friendly’s and Wendy’s restaurants as well as an office building. Full story here.
The Promenade Shops welcomes new tenant, hosting ‘Wonderland on Main’ event
UPPER SAUCON TWP., Pa. – The new year has brought a new tenant to The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley.
Fulton Bank, offering a broad array of financial products and services in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and Virginia, on Monday opened its newest Lehigh Valley branch at 3060 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 839, Upper Saucon Township.
The branch offers a variety of services, including deposits, loans, check cashing and safe deposit boxes. Read more here.
Schuylkill County winery earns ‘best white wine’ in Pa. distinction from prominent wine critic
WEST PENN TWP., Pa. – A Schuylkill County winery is making a splash in 2024, with high praise on a well-known wine media platform.
Galen Glen Winery, at 255 Winter Mountain Drive in the Andreas section of West Penn Township, earlier this week received acclaim on JamesSuckling.com, a prominent wine media platform and events company with offices in Hong Kong.
Senior Editor Stuart Pigott labeled the Galen Glen Riesling Lehigh Valley Stone Cellar 2022 as “the best white wine he has ever tasted from Pennsylvania,” according to a Weekly Tasting Report. Read more.
Berks buzz
‘Stay and sip a while’: Folino Estate owners open 2nd Vintner’s Table wine bar and restaurant
WYOMISSING, Pa. – The owners of Folino Estate Winery near Kutztown have opened another tasty venue in Berks County.
Husband and wife Marco and Andrea Folino, who opened Folino Estate in Greenwich Township in 2015, on Tuesday opened a second location of Vintner’s Table – a wine bar and restaurant serving up Folino’s hand-crafted, award-winning wines along with charcuterie and light bites – at 945 Hill Have. Suite 100 in Wyomissing.
“We welcome you to reserve a seat at our table,” an announcement on Vintner’s Table’s Facebook page reads. “Our menu was a labor of love carefully curated to bring you an elevated dining experience full of rustic Italian flavors paired with our award winning wines in a chic and cozy atmosphere that invites you to stay and sip a while.” Full story here.
New golf simulator at Sly Fox has golfers hitting the virtual links
WYOMISSING, Pa. – There’s a new gathering place inside an already familiar spot in Wyomissing that can transport you to dozens of golf courses around the world.
While it’s winter outside, the basement of Sly Fox Brewing, dubbed the Foxskeller, features a whole different vibe.
Golfers are teeing up and taking their swings on brand new golf simulators. Read more here.
Vinyl enthusiasts to descend on Leesport Farmers Market this weekend for ‘Record Riot’
ONTELAUNEE TWP., Pa. – It’s about the search for something special.
“Number one, I’m a collector. All these guys that sell records they all are interested in records, so I’m looking at his records saying ‘What does he have?’ And I saw something I want to buy,” said Record Riot event organizer Stephen Gritzan.
Thumbing through crates of creative work put to vinyl is a physical interaction that seems increasingly rare. Read more.
‘Heavy heart’: Moe’s Southwest Grill location to close after 10 years in Berks County
EXETER TWP., Pa. – An eatery serving up made-to-order burritos, quesadillas, nachos and tacos is ending operations this weekend in Berks County.
A location of Moe’s Southwest Grill, a fast-casual restaurant franchise serving “high quality and fresh southwestern food,” will close on Sunday at 4725 Perkiomen Ave. in Exeter Township.
The restaurant is located in the Exeter Commons, between a Fine Wine & Good Spirits store and L.A. Nails Day Spa. Full story here.
Closing notes
Rite Aid closes Bethlehem store, with another Lehigh Valley location set to shutter on Jan. 15
Two Rite Aid stores in the Lehigh Valley are ceasing operations this month, joining several other regional locations of the pharmacy chain that closed in 2023.
First, a Rite Aid store at 104 E. Third St. on Bethlehem’s South Side shuttered on Wednesday, Jan. 10, according to storefront signage, addressed “Attention: store closure.” Read more here.
American Eagle Outfitters closing Lehigh Valley store
PALMER TWP., Pa. – A well-known clothing retailer is reducing its brick-and-mortar footprint in the Lehigh Valley.
American Eagle Outfitters, a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products, will close its American Eagle store at the Palmer Park Mall in Palmer Township on Jan. 20, a store manager said.
The manager could not comment on the reasons surrounding the upcoming closure. Read more.
Discount variety store closes in Easton area
PALMER TWP., Pa. – A destination for affordable snacks, household items, party supplies and more has closed in Northampton County.
One Dollar Zone!, a discount variety store “where you can find trusted brands and thousands of great quality items for as low as $1.00,” closed a couple of weeks ago at 785 S. 25th St. in Palmer Township.
It’s unclear what led to the store’s closure. A company representative did not return a message seeking more information, and a sign on the door simply reads, “WE ARE CLOSED.” Full story here.