Alright, Born and raised here. Poverty rate is 11.9%, which is around average. The weather takes some getting used to. Anyone in a similar situation? Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
2 upvotes
6 Replies
Noah Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 26, moved here 5 years ago from New York. I've lived in Eastside and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The traffic situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 New York, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K 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.
29 upvotes
Avery S.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Seattle about 12 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good healthcare facilities
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is underrated.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Robert S.
I've lived in Westside for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The pet-friendliness scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
23 upvotes
Sadie Bailey
preach
19 upvotes
Jace Allen
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Owen A.
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
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