I'm single, late 20s, and Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Crime rate is something to consider -Ames sits at 197.8 per 100K. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Should I be concerned?
21 upvotes
12 Replies
Leo Ward
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely challenging and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Fairview) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Dating scene 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.
37 upvotes
Genesis Rodriguez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Oak Park. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in construction. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
30 upvotes
sebastian_rider
hmm interesting perspective
27 upvotes
lake_aubrey3
underrated comment
26 upvotes
Donna G.
exactly what I was thinking
25 upvotes
Jordan Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 15 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Scarlett T.
I work in real estate here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is pretty good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
13 upvotes
Ruby Robinson
hmm interesting perspective
9 upvotes
loving_samuel55
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The housing market is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
6 upvotes
Miles Price
haha yep pretty much
1 upvotes
Lucas Flores
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
0 upvotes
Lawrence J.
I work in legal here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is challenging. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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