Baton Rouge vs South Bend — which is better to move to?
My partner and I are deciding between Baton Rouge and Spokane Valley for our next move. We care most about:
- Cost of living
- Safety
- Job market (retail)
- Outdoor activities
Anyone who's lived in either or both — which would you choose and why?
40 upvotes
20 Replies
Hannah P.
Public transit needs work but they're investing in it. Should improve in next few years.
40 upvotes
Carol C.
Moved here last year. No regrets. So many outdoor activities.
40 upvotes
Carol C.
Public transit needs work but they're investing in it. Should improve in next few years.
37 upvotes
Timothy C.
I work in education and finding a job wasn't hard. Took about 4 months.
36 upvotes
Timothy C.
Good summary. I'd rate it higher personally — maybe 8/10.
34 upvotes
Hannah P.
Rent tip: look for places in October-November. Prices drop and there's more availability.
29 upvotes
Michelle C.
Moved here last year. No regrets. The local food is incredible.
24 upvotes
Carol C.
As someone who moved here from Dallas, I can confirm most of this. The cost of living surprised me the most.
23 upvotes
Hannah P.
Weather is the biggest factor for us. Love the warmth year round!
19 upvotes
Natalie M.
My kids love it here. So many parks and activities. So many outdoor activities.
17 upvotes
Olivia B.
Public transit needs work but they're investing in it. Should improve in next few years.
16 upvotes
Carol C.
I've lived in Old Town for 1 years and it's decent, has its pros and cons.
16 upvotes
Timothy C.
Traffic is the worst part honestly. But if you live near work it's fine.
12 upvotes
Timothy C.
This is so helpful, thanks for sharing! We're moving to Baton Rouge next month.
12 upvotes
Natalie M.
My kids love it here. So many parks and activities. The local food is incredible.
11 upvotes
Timothy C.
Been here 20 years. The city has changed a lot but overall for the better.
8 upvotes
Olivia B.
This is so helpful, thanks for sharing! We're moving to Baton Rouge next month.
7 upvotes
Eric O.
Don't sleep on Oakwood. It's up and coming and still affordable.
7 upvotes
Olivia B.
Can confirm the safety issue. But it really depends on the neighborhood. Westside and Cedar Hills are perfectly safe.
5 upvotes
Olivia B.
Downtown is overrated and overpriced. The suburbs offer way better value.