OK so Born and raised here. The median home value here is around $689,000, which is pretty steep. Poverty rate is 7.7%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Avon sits at 153.9 per 100K. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I wrong here? The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
10 Replies
Bennett Edwards
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 7 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Avery James
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is tough in most areas.
36 upvotes
Robert Flores
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 39, moved here 9 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Pine Hills and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The job market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Charlotte, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
35 upvotes
Hannah S.
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much affordable but now it's surprisingly good.
35 upvotes
Aurora Ruiz
Bought a house here in 2016 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
19 upvotes
Chloe Wright
This.
18 upvotes
maverick_chef
+1
15 upvotes
Emilia Foster
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from San Francisco about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited high-paying job options
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 solid.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Jordan Mitchell
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor recreation is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
6 upvotes
Cynthia M.
Bought a house here in 2021 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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