Hey folks, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 7.0%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Appreciate any input. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
1 upvotes
4 Replies
grace_chef
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 51, moved here 11 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Low crime in most neighborhoods
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. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The nightlife situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. tough 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 Miami, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
34 upvotes
Eleanor Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 24, moved here 2 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Sunset and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The weather situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. solid vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Chicago, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K 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.
31 upvotes
George H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Phoenix about 11 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
Quinn Johnson
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Italian places. it was the best decision I ever made.
All Countries
