Born and raised here. Median household income is $191,348, which feels pretty solid for the area. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What do you all think? Thanks in advance! The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up.
18 upvotes
2 Replies
Jordan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 31, moved here 9 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Springfield and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The job market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Charlotte, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
39 upvotes
James Scott
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 49, moved here 14 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Maple Ridge and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The weather situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Phoenix, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
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