I'm a remote worker and Poverty rate is 6.2%, which is pretty low. With a population of 157K, Alexandria is a mid-size city. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Worth the trade-offs? I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
39 upvotes
11 Replies
Leo R.
I've lived in Greenfield for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- The public transit scene is decent
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
40 upvotes
Natalie D.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
34 upvotes
Jack G.
noted, appreciate it
34 upvotes
Brooks W.
I'm a sales manager and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
autumn_living
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
28 upvotes
Matthew Stewart
not my experience at all
26 upvotes
Ellie Green
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 37, moved here 5 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Old Town and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The housing market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
20 upvotes
Eli Cruz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
15 upvotes
Thomas Smith
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 8 years ago. The main reasons were school and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
9 upvotes
Autumn S.
glad someone said it
3 upvotes
Cora Jackson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Charlotte it's pretty good.
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