Hey folks, I work in marketing and Rent is about $1,272/month for a decent place. The median home value here is around $259,300, which seems about average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Does this match your experience? Any help is appreciated. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
18 upvotes
6 Replies
Madeline Myers
bump
34 upvotes
Helen M.
seconding this
21 upvotes
Greyson W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 58, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in East and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The community vibe situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 San Diego, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K 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.
14 upvotes
scarlett_rider
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from San Diego about 15 years ago. The main reasons were work and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good healthcare facilities
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is solid.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Hope this helps!.
12 upvotes
Liam Foster
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
2 upvotes
Quinn Jones
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
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