I'm originally from Austin and Median household income is $51,162, which feels on the lower side for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Any help is appreciated. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
6 upvotes
8 Replies
Leonardo Ramos
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 15 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into running, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Maverick Cox
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
30 upvotes
Hunter Cook
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 8 years. Moved from Minneapolis for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is improving - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are improving. 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited entertainment options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Matthew Johnson
Used to live on the Uptown side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
27 upvotes
Riley W.
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The traffic is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
26 upvotes
Alice R.
following this thread
19 upvotes
Nathan Cook
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 10 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is excellent.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Skylar Anderson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Dallas it's improving.