Curious what people think. The median home value here is around $335,100, which seems about average. Average temperature is around 46--F, so expect cold winters. The unemployment rate is 3.3%, which is pretty low. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Anyone in a similar situation? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
20 upvotes
13 Replies
Mateo Watson
I've lived in Sunset for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- The community vibe scene is tough
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Hope this helps!.
39 upvotes
Olivia
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. Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Declan Sanders
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want housing market, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
36 upvotes
Gabriella Myers
haha yep pretty much
34 upvotes
kcmama2020
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 32, moved here 12 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Downtown and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The dating scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
31 upvotes
Dennis R.
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great Italian places. the quality of life is solid.
25 upvotes
Lillian
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 12 years. Moved from Baltimore for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. legal 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:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Eastside schools are tough. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Isla L.
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
Camila Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 36, moved here 10 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Oak Park and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The school system situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
12 upvotes
Helen P.
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
4 upvotes
henry_soul
Bought a house here in 2015 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone about the same since then.
3 upvotes
Emilia Smith
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
3 upvotes
Eva
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Raleigh about 14 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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