OK so My family moved here when I was a kid. Crime rate is something to consider -Bell Gardens sits at 347.0 per 100K. Poverty rate is 19.0%, which is higher than I expected. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
4 upvotes
14 Replies
Adam L.
as a local I can confirm
38 upvotes
Weston Allen
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The traffic is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
38 upvotes
Eva Anderson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Francisco about 14 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are developing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Definitely worth checking out..
32 upvotes
Jose Morgan
not my experience at all
29 upvotes
Aurora Rogers
Bought a house here in 2018 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone about the same since then.
29 upvotes
Melanie Hernandez
not my experience at all
28 upvotes
Natalie Myers
following this thread
14 upvotes
Angel Jimenez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
10 upvotes
Melanie White
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 15 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are wild, gas is tough.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
9 upvotes
Greyson Jackson
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Midtown area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
9 upvotes
Jeremy P.
facts
7 upvotes
Rylee Scott
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
7 upvotes
Ella Parker
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 3 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
6 upvotes
David Garcia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 7 years. Moved from Miami for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are hit or miss. 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. Limited entertainment options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.