Not sure if this has been asked before, but The unemployment rate is 1.0%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. Crime rate is something to consider -Arrowhead Beach sits at 582.2 per 100K. Poverty rate is 24.5%, which is higher than I expected. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Anyone in a similar situation? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
2 upvotes
5 Replies
Jaxon Kelly
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
39 upvotes
Andrew Martin
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 28, moved here 2 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Eastside and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The walkability situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Boston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
31 upvotes
Gabriella Kim
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Nashville about 14 years ago. The main reasons were weather and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Homeless population growing downtown
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 affordable, gas is average.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Grace Collins
accurate
12 upvotes
Lucas Moore
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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