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Anna
moving
Moving to Bend for work -advice?
Curious what people think. What are your go-to spots? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
35 upvotes
13 Replies
Evelyn Green
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Midtown. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in tech. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Midtown. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in tech. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Sophia Hughes
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 41, moved here 6 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in West and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Chicago, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K 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.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 41, moved here 6 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in West and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Chicago, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K 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.
38 upvotes
Genesis R.
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The walkability is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Christian Ward
couldn't agree more
36 upvotes
nola_luna
Saving this thread
31 upvotes
Carter Baker
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 9 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
I've been here 9 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
Leo S.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Nashville it's better than expected.
27 upvotes
Richard S.
accurate
27 upvotes
Olivia C.
This.
24 upvotes
Gianna Clark
thanks for sharing
19 upvotes
Riley Diaz
I've lived in North for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
- The community vibe scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
- The community vibe scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
Elena S.
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..
11 upvotes
Leah Ward
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
8 upvotes