We have two kids and Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Let me know your thoughts.
17 upvotes
8 Replies
Willow Nguyen
good to know, thanks
35 upvotes
Silas Wood
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The food scene is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
19 upvotes
Mia Gutierrez
I'm a writer and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
19 upvotes
Zoe W.
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The community vibe is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Josiah Castillo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 54, moved here 11 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Lakewood and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cultural scene situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. surprisingly good 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 San Francisco, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K 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.
7 upvotes
portland_samuel
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Feel free to reach out with questions..
6 upvotes
Anna Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 58, moved here 11 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The community vibe situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for families. excellent 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 Austin, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K 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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