Hi all, I grew up here but left for a while. Household incomes average around $82,441 in Calera. Homes are going for about $214,200 on average. You can expect to pay around $1,505 for rent here. The median home value here is around $214,200, which is actually reasonable. Rent is about $1,505/month for a decent place. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. Is this normal for Calera? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
14 upvotes
6 Replies
Leo Hill
thanks for sharing
38 upvotes
Nora C.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Westside. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in finance. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
stlpapa2020
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
22 upvotes
Kai J.
nah I disagree
12 upvotes
Nolan Thomas
Moved here last year, no regrets.
4 upvotes
Colton Jones
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 54, moved here 7 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Riverside and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The cultural scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Miami, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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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