Been meaning to ask this. I've been here for 15 years and Poverty rate is 8.3%, which is pretty low. It's a a smaller city city with about 55,888 people. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What would you do? TIA! I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
11 Replies
Jonathan Wilson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is tough in most areas.
39 upvotes
Zoey
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Sadie R.
I'm a software engineer and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
Cooper R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
29 upvotes
Aria Young
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Portland about 7 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Isaiah
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
26 upvotes
Stella Howard
Came here for cost of living and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The job market is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
15 upvotes
Caleb R.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Happy to answer more specific questions..
10 upvotes
Maria W.
spot on
9 upvotes
Gabriella Myers
nah I disagree
6 upvotes
Declan C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely solid and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
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