OK so The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $263,600, which seems about average. Rent is about $1,624/month for a decent place. It's a a smaller city city with about 45,657 people. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. Am I overthinking this? The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
13 upvotes
3 Replies
Caroline Mitchell
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Tampa about 10 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is challenging.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
32 upvotes
Aurora B.
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 3 years. Moved from Atlanta for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is tough - we have beaches 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 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. Limited public transit options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Olivia Cooper
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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