Been meaning to ask this. Crime rate is something to consider -Brunswick sits at 48.6 per 100K. Homes are going for about $233,300 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Anyone in a similar situation? Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
James Stewart
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
37 upvotes
Delilah
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
36 upvotes
Xavier Martinez
couldn't agree more
36 upvotes
Anna Rodriguez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 32, moved here 1 years ago from Denver. I've lived in East and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The cultural scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Denver, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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
Connor Smith
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 40, moved here 6 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Oak Park and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The nightlife situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Seattle, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
33 upvotes
Mia M.
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
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