Hi all, With a population of 1,140, Cacao comunidad is a small town. It's a a small town city with about 1,140 people. Rent is about $666/month for a decent place. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. What are your go-to spots? The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
10 upvotes
7 Replies
portland_nova
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is cultural scene. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
33 upvotes
Cameron Gutierrez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 49, moved here 12 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Lakewood and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. surprisingly good 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 Austin, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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
portland_allison
Saving this thread
27 upvotes
Gloria H.
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Downtown area are decent. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Henry P.
been saying this for years
18 upvotes
Brielle Carter
Came here for retirement and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The safety is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
16 upvotes
Connor
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from LA about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. It's not for everyone but it works for us..