We have two kids and Median household income is $179,063, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 4.0%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Is this normal for Burke? Cheers. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
28 upvotes
15 Replies
Ryan H.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Salt Lake City it's better than expected.
39 upvotes
Nova Turner
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 12 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited shopping options. Homeless population growing downtown. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
clara_vibes
Moved here from Minneapolis about 4 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to weather but Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
cool_quinn38
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
stldude2021
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Paisley
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
22 upvotes
Adrian Chavez
I've lived in Old Town for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
- The school system scene is average
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
Brielle Hughes
this is the way
12 upvotes
John Walker
great question, following
9 upvotes
Mason Hughes
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
5 upvotes
Ariana Turner
same here
4 upvotes
George L.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Fairview. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in consulting. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like seafood.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Aubrey H.
Moved here from Baltimore about 14 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to dating scene but Feel free to reach out with questions..
3 upvotes
Declan Cook
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Cedar Grove for 14 years. Moved from San Francisco for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is tough - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Winters are long and cold. Bugs and humidity in summer. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
1 upvotes
Greyson Morgan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 29, moved here 2 years ago from LA. I've lived in Meadowbrook and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The safety situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
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