Anyone else feel this way? We're a young couple and Average temperature is around 58--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 8.9%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Is this normal for Belleville? The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
30 upvotes
7 Replies
Clara Castillo
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Phoenix about 12 years ago. The main reasons were school and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
39 upvotes
Grace Ross
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The public transit is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
37 upvotes
Chloe Mitchell
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Cora Mitchell
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 41, moved here 15 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in East and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
33 upvotes
Elena S.
100%
28 upvotes
Nevaeh Roberts
same here
21 upvotes
Audrey
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Seattle about 8 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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