Hey everyone, We have two kids and Rent is about $989/month for a decent place. The food scene here is surprisingly good. What do you all think? The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
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Cameron Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 42, moved here 2 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Springfield and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The healthcare situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. better than expected 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 Minneapolis, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K 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.
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