Curious what people think. I'm originally from Phoenix and Average temperature is around 40--F, so bundle up in winter. Rent is about $1,417/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $291,700 on average. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Is this normal for Big Lake? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
6 upvotes
8 Replies
Jose Alvarez
hard disagree but ok
35 upvotes
emmett_chef
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I genuinely enjoy living here. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
33 upvotes
Clara Jackson
glad someone said it
19 upvotes
Skylar Rivera
not my experience at all
18 upvotes
Logan Torres
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely solid and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (West) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. weather 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.
14 upvotes
David Taylor
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Midtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Willow Williams
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 8 years. Moved from Nashville for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is solid - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are solid. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Can feel isolated. Homeless population growing downtown. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
4 upvotes
sfgirl2020
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 37, moved here 4 years ago from Miami. I've lived in West and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited shopping options
3. The healthcare situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for singles. improving 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
All Countries
