Anyone else feel this way? I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,316 for rent here. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Thoughts? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
5 upvotes
22 Replies
Kennedy Ramirez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely tough and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Highland) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
39 upvotes
Wesley Turner
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it exceeded my expectations. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Kaylee Parker
noted, appreciate it
34 upvotes
Aiden H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Houston about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are reasonable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Emma
great question, following
30 upvotes
Aurora
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in The Heights area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
29 upvotes
Chloe Cook
Moved here from New York about 12 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
nola_andrew
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
27 upvotes
Alexa Walker
interesting, hadn't considered that
26 upvotes
Nathan A.
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Highland area are solid. Kids love it here.
23 upvotes
Stella M.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Mateo
facts
20 upvotes
Grace J.
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Axel James
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is excellent in most areas.
15 upvotes
Nora P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Atlanta about 13 years ago. The main reasons were family and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
austin_david
glad someone said it
9 upvotes
Noah J.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
8 upvotes
Grayson Morgan
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
7 upvotes
Mary N.
This.
7 upvotes
Jordan Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 7 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Sunset schools are challenging. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Bugs and humidity in summer. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
6 upvotes
Colton Carter
nah I disagree
3 upvotes
Silas Nguyen
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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