5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to the Triad (Oak Ridge, Greensboro, Summerfield + More!)

Moving to a new area is exciting — but there are always a few things you only truly learn once you live there! If you're planning a move to the Triad (think Oak Ridge, Greensboro, Summerfield, Winston-Salem), here are 5 things I wish someone had told me before I made the move.

1. Allergy Season Is No Joke 

They don't call it Greensboro for nothing — this part of North Carolina is bursting with greenery, and when spring and summer roll around, so does the pollen! If you have seasonal allergies, go ahead and stock up on your favorite allergy medicine. The blooms are beautiful... but they're also powerful!

2. Traffic? What Traffic? 

Coming from a big city, when I saw that the GSO airport to downtown Winston-Salem was 23 miles, I braced for an hour-long commute. Surprise: 23 miles here usually means about 25 minutes of easy freeway driving. Traffic in the Triad is, for the most part, a breeze (knocking on wood!) — and you'll quickly fall in love with the low-stress commutes.

3. Small Town Charm + Big City Perks 

One of the best-kept secrets about the Triad is how it offers the best of both worlds. You’ll find charming small towns like Oak Ridge and Summerfield where community spirit runs deep, but you’re also just minutes from vibrant downtown areas with incredible restaurants, concerts, farmers markets, and shopping. Pro Tip: Every weekend can feel like a "choose your own adventure" — hike in the morning, city dine at night.

4. Outdoor Lovers, Prepare to Be Spoiled 

If you enjoy being outdoors, you’ll be in heaven here. From trails like Beaver Dam Trail in Oak Ridge, to kayaking at Lake Brandt, to strolls through Tanglewood Park, the options are endless — and close by. Even better: you don't have to drive hours to feel like you're escaping into nature — it's often just minutes away.

5. People Are Genuinely Friendly — and Mean It 

If you’re moving from a larger metro area, you might do a double-take at how welcoming people are. Neighbors wave. Strangers hold the door. People will actually strike up a conversation at the coffee shop. It’s not forced — it's just part of the culture here. Pro Tip: Embrace it! A quick “hello” often leads to great connections, new friends, and even insider tips on the best local spots.

The Triad is a special place — with a perfect blend of southern hospitality, modern conveniences, and natural beauty.  If you're thinking about making a move here, I'd love to help you find the right place to call home.  Reach out anytime — I'm here to be a resource (and your future neighbor!).