Anyone else feel this way? I'm originally from Minneapolis and Poverty rate is 2.1%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $2,074/month for a decent place. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
5 upvotes
6 Replies
Ashley H.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely tough and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (West) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Limited public transit 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.
38 upvotes
Jonathan
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely improving and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Nashville, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
32 upvotes
Aubrey A.
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor recreation is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Lillian Reed
great question, following
27 upvotes
Madelyn Richardson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 26, moved here 9 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Highland and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The dating scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
10 upvotes
Kaylee Myers
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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