Longtime lurker here, My partner and I are With a population of 345K, Anaheim is a mid-size city. Crime rate is something to consider — Anaheim sits at 316.5 per 100K. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. What do you all think? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Brooks
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 2 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
David
Moved here from Chicago about 6 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to cultural scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Naomi Morris
I've lived in Sunset for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The healthcare scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
23 upvotes
Natalie P.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 14 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
21 upvotes
Scarlett M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness 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.
18 upvotes
Betty R.
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Thai places. the quality of life is solid.
17 upvotes
houston_willow
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
17 upvotes
Charlotte Nelson
noted, appreciate it
16 upvotes
Elena Sanders
haha yep pretty much
15 upvotes
nyc_landon
seconding this
14 upvotes
Aurora Wood
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
9 upvotes
Joshua K.
Can confirm, been here 6 years.
7 upvotes
Emilia J.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely challenging and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability 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.
4 upvotes
Maria R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
4 upvotes
James Y.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Phoenix it's decent.
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