Hey, I'm single, late 40s, and Crime rate is something to consider -Calabasas sits at 145.7 per 100K. The weather takes some getting used to. TIA! Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
3 upvotes
15 Replies
Parker Turner
+1
40 upvotes
Sophia Morris
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 28, moved here 5 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Eastside and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally pretty good - 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 job market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for singles. improving vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Charlotte, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K 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.
34 upvotes
Amelia B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 43, moved here 15 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Eastside and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Houston, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
34 upvotes
Violet S.
Public transit is better than expected here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
31 upvotes
Gabriella Myers
I've lived in West for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
- The dating scene scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
Adam C.
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I have mixed feelings honestly.
25 upvotes
Oliver Baker
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Ezekiel Turner
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 8 years. Moved from Atlanta for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is decent - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are solid. 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited shopping options. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
cincygirl2020
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Quinn Castillo
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 9 years ago. The main reasons were weather and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
18 upvotes
Evelyn N.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from San Diego about 12 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
17 upvotes
Mason
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
15 upvotes
Jordan Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Dallas about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Austin Gonzalez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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