Hey, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and The unemployment rate is 4.2%, which is about average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Let me know your thoughts.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
William Rivera
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
40 upvotes
Christine R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 43, moved here 14 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Pine Hills and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
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. Road conditions need improvement
3. The public transit situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
38 upvotes
Noah G.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
37 upvotes
jose_fan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 26, moved here 6 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Springfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The housing market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. solid 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 Portland, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
26 upvotes
Peyton Rogers
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Springfield area are decent. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
cool_lucy29
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 5 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into running, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
delilah_native
100%
20 upvotes
Wesley
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
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