So, Median household income is $139,840, which feels pretty solid for the area. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Thoughts? Looking forward to hearing from you all. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
15 upvotes
12 Replies
Valentina Flores
exactly what I was thinking
34 upvotes
Kaylee J.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 8 years. Moved from Raleigh for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Bugs and humidity in summer. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Sophie Gonzalez
+1
27 upvotes
Connor W.
thanks for sharing
24 upvotes
Julia Scott
This.
24 upvotes
Aaliyah Adams
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
23 upvotes
Weston T.
Bought a house here in 2018 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone about the same since then.
19 upvotes
Jordan Rodriguez
literally same
19 upvotes
omahaguy2026
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 13 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Lakewood and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The traffic situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 San Francisco, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K 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.
16 upvotes
Hudson A.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
la_lucas
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if weather matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
3 upvotes
Caleb Jones
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Westside. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in real estate. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Thai.
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