OK so I'm a teacher here and The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What are your go-to spots? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
8 upvotes
11 Replies
Everett Wood
Moved here from Portland about 12 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to safety but Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Hailey Hernandez
seconding this
26 upvotes
austinchef2021
big facts right here
21 upvotes
Nevaeh
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 35, moved here 11 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Cedar Grove and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited public transit options
3. The healthcare situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for singles. improving vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K 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.
20 upvotes
Gregory L.
been saying this for years
16 upvotes
tucson_allison
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely decent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Highland) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
10 upvotes
Stella M.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
9 upvotes
Weston
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 14 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
9 upvotes
Cameron Green
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
2 upvotes
Violet Robinson
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Asian places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
1 upvotes
omaha_leah
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 8 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to job market but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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