First post here. I'm retired and Poverty rate is 7.6%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $313,500 on average. The city has invested a lot in new development. Anyone in a similar situation? It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
20 upvotes
10 Replies
Willie T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 27, moved here 6 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Springfield and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Francisco, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K 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.
37 upvotes
Logan Edwards
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely better than expected and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Limited shopping 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.
30 upvotes
Elizabeth H.
Came here for school and stayed because I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor recreation is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
28 upvotes
Natalie Flores
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great craft beer places. it was the best decision I ever made.
26 upvotes
Autumn M.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Asian places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
25 upvotes
Melanie Thompson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Baltimore it's hit or miss.
19 upvotes
fresno_emma
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
Ezra Rogers
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Springfield. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in construction. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Thai.
No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
Noah C.
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 5 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to cultural scene but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
6 upvotes
Ian Williams
I'm a lawyer and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is average and there's always something going on.
All Countries
