So, You can expect to pay around $2,223 for rent here. Median household income is $93,889, which feels pretty solid for the area. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Would love some local perspective.
3 upvotes
11 Replies
emma_dude
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Highland) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
38 upvotes
Mason Gomez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
37 upvotes
Samuel Patel
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Boston about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good airport with direct flights
- Diverse dining options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are affordable, gas is average.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Katherine Rodriguez
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Sunset area are tough. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Henry Jimenez
accurate
34 upvotes
Olivia Ramirez
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
33 upvotes
Aaliyah Adams
yep
28 upvotes
Carolyn M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 9 years. Moved from LA for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 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. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are challenging. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Can feel isolated. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Delilah Walker
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
16 upvotes
Scarlett Hughes
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 14 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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