Alright, Been living here since 2012. It's a a smaller city city with about 32,334 people. Average temperature is around 64--F, so the weather is moderate. The city has invested a lot in new development. Does this match your experience? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
4 upvotes
3 Replies
Bella Foster
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 7 years. Moved from Tampa for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited high-paying job options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Isabelle M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 3 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Limited entertainment options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Naomi Kelly
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 51, moved here 5 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Highland and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The food scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Westside: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Minneapolis, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
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