I'm a 27-year-old teacher and Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Is this normal for Bethany? Thanks in advance! The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
7 upvotes
8 Replies
Aubrey Sanders
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 3 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the East side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
31 upvotes
David
big facts right here
29 upvotes
Jack Reed
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The weather is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Elizabeth Hill
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 36, moved here 14 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Uptown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The school system situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for couples. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Miami, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
22 upvotes
Andrew Evans
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Chicago about 7 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is decent.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Harper Castillo
I've lived in South for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- The job market scene is improving
The downsides:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
20 upvotes
Waylon Brown
hmm interesting perspective
17 upvotes
Delilah W.
Bought a house here in 2015 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
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