Rent is about $832/month for a decent place. With a population of 12,796, Amherst is a small town. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Anyone in a similar situation? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Emilia J.
good to know, thanks
40 upvotes
Savannah Hernandez
lol so true
40 upvotes
Riley Martinez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely average and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Midtown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene 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.
28 upvotes
Ryan R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
26 upvotes
Brooks Myers
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 2 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the East side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Kai S.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely tough and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
18 upvotes
Emma R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 53, moved here 11 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Pine Hills and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The outdoor recreation situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Houston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K 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.
17 upvotes
Jack Anderson
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much growing but now it's tough.
17 upvotes
Genesis King
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely challenging and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
12 upvotes
Addison M.
Came here for work and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The community vibe is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
10 upvotes
Amelia K.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
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