Anyone else feel this way? My partner and I are Crime rate is something to consider -Brownsville sits at 263.3 per 100K. Average temperature is around 77--F, so it's warm year-round. Homes are going for about $285,100 on average. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Kayden
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want community vibe, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
31 upvotes
Dylan Clark
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Chicago it's tough.
31 upvotes
Mason C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 42, moved here 10 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Uptown and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The dating scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for retirees. surprisingly good 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 San Francisco, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$80K 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.
30 upvotes
Kinsley Scott
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
25 upvotes
Amelia
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Phoenix about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are stable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Matthew P.
I've lived in West for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Affordable housing options
- The pet-friendliness scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Aiden Reed
same here
16 upvotes
Dylan M.
this is the way
13 upvotes
Daniel Watson
thanks for sharing
12 upvotes
Waylon Alvarez
preach
7 upvotes
Benjamin P.
Used to live on the West side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.