Hey, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
26 upvotes
17 Replies
Kennedy R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 12 years. Moved from Phoenix for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are challenging. 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 public transit options. Winters are long and cold. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Emmett Edwards
haha yep pretty much
40 upvotes
Lydia Torres
glad someone said it
37 upvotes
Aubrey W.
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in The Heights area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
Wesley M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 38, moved here 1 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Eastside and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Portland, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K 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.
35 upvotes
Adrian Myers
As someone who grew up here, it's been a really good experience overall. A lot has changed in the past few years though. weather used to be much stable but now it's better than expected.
32 upvotes
Melanie Rodriguez
not my experience at all
30 upvotes
vegas_ethan
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The school system is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
29 upvotes
Lydia M.
Came here for school and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The dating scene is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
25 upvotes
Mateo W.
I'm a sales manager and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
24 upvotes
Greyson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
11 upvotes
minneapolisheart2026
Moved here last year, no regrets.
10 upvotes
Isaiah Gomez
glad someone said it
4 upvotes
Caroline
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Austin about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
lake_kai53
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
3 upvotes
Eva Howard
Moved here from Austin about 6 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Definitely worth checking out..
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