Not sure if this has been asked before, but Military spouse here. Poverty rate is 29.7%, which is higher than I expected. Homes are going for about $73,200 on average. The median home value here is around $73,200, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Would love some local perspective. Any help is appreciated. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
0 upvotes
7 Replies
Kayden C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 26, moved here 3 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Pine Hills and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Close to major attractions
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cultural scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Tampa, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K 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.
34 upvotes
Mateo Campbell
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely pretty good and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Westside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
22 upvotes
Eli
Used to live on the South side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
21 upvotes
grace_kid
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Westside. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in legal. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Brooklyn Mendoza
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Chicago about 11 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are affordable, gas is solid.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
urban_eli26
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Austin about 2 years ago. The main reasons were weather and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good airport with direct flights
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are competitive, gas is tough.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. No regrets on my end..
7 upvotes
Owen Cook
I work in government here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is better than expected. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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