Hey everyone, I'm a college student here and Median household income is $70,041, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 55--F, so the weather is moderate. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
10 upvotes
11 Replies
Karen P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 9 years ago. The main reasons were family and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is tough.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. No regrets on my end..
40 upvotes
Abigail
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The community vibe is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
38 upvotes
Audrey M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is improving in most areas.
37 upvotes
Leo Taylor
couldn't agree more
23 upvotes
Austin
following this thread
23 upvotes
Grace Martin
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much developing but now it's pretty good.
20 upvotes
Isaiah Torres
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
19 upvotes
Quinn P.
literally same
18 upvotes
Samuel N.
not my experience at all
17 upvotes
Lydia Cook
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Highland area are underrated. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
David Gonzalez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 30, moved here 11 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Springfield and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Low crime in most neighborhoods
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited shopping options
3. The community vibe situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Baltimore, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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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