Been meaning to ask this. I'm retired and The median home value here is around $125,300, which is actually reasonable. Poverty rate is 14.7%, which is around average. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Let me know your thoughts. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up.
7 upvotes
6 Replies
Colton Green
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Old Town. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Avery Chavez
facts
25 upvotes
Miles A.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is tough in most areas.
22 upvotes
Charlotte Rivera
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Austin about 1 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Far from beaches/mountains
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 reasonable, gas is improving.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
11 upvotes
Mackenzie Lopez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 25, moved here 11 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Eastside and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The public transit situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Phoenix, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
7 upvotes
Samuel
Moved here from San Francisco about 1 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to public transit but Good luck with whatever you decide..
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