Been meaning to ask this. The median home value here is around $289,200, which seems about average. You can expect to pay around $1,436 for rent here. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Would love some local perspective. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
6 upvotes
14 Replies
Michael Ross
preach
40 upvotes
Ellie Price
good to know, thanks
40 upvotes
Sophie Hernandez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 36, moved here 3 years ago from LA. I've lived in Greenfield and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 LA, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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
Isla Williams
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is underrated in most areas.
34 upvotes
Donna L.
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much pricey but now it's challenging.
33 upvotes
Ruby Patel
Can confirm, been here 11 years.
33 upvotes
Allison Garcia
Can confirm, been here 11 years.
24 upvotes
Claire Kim
wish I knew this sooner
23 upvotes
Olivia
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The safety is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Jackson Wilson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in East. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in education. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Ian Lee
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is tough in most areas.
14 upvotes
Ariana Roberts
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
14 upvotes
Alexa
Came here for quality of life and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The job market is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
10 upvotes
Noah H.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
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