Random thought, We have two kids and Rent is about $1,311/month for a decent place. Median household income is $73,809, which feels about average for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Albany sits at 127.3 per 100K. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. What are your go-to spots? Appreciate any input. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
15 upvotes
8 Replies
Jaxon H.
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Highland area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Silas Thomas
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is improving in most areas.
32 upvotes
Christine G.
underrated comment
31 upvotes
Hazel Ortiz
I'm a contractor and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
28 upvotes
Weston Bennett
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 53, moved here 7 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Lakewood and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Property taxes are high
3. The weather situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
22 upvotes
Caroline Lee
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Mason Scott
I'm a marketing manager and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
6 upvotes
austin_jonathan
Moved here from Dallas about 6 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to public transit but No regrets on my end..