Been living here since 2020. Poverty rate is 15.8%, which is higher than I expected. Average temperature is around 71--F, so it's warm year-round. The city has invested a lot in new development. Should I be concerned? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
3 upvotes
11 Replies
Oliver Bennett
Moved here from Austin about 12 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to cultural scene but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
nycmama2024
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
38 upvotes
charlotte_fan
yep
33 upvotes
Robert Walker
couldn't agree more
30 upvotes
Levi Phillips
good to know, thanks
30 upvotes
Carson Young
Used to live on the Maple Ridge side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
28 upvotes
Adeline Cook
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
18 upvotes
Jordan J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 42, moved here 9 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Eastside and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited shopping options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Nashville, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
13 upvotes
Emma R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Portland about 14 years ago. The main reasons were weather and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Aubrey Peterson
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
10 upvotes
Karen M.
Used to live on the Uptown side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
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