Hey everyone, We have two kids and Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. Rent is about $1,595/month for a decent place. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development.
23 upvotes
10 Replies
Lydia Smith
This.
36 upvotes
Daniel R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 44, moved here 1 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in East and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The traffic situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
27 upvotes
Eleanor Perez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 13 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Maverick
glad someone said it
19 upvotes
Isabella Hughes
glad someone said it
18 upvotes
Mateo D.
+1
15 upvotes
Vivian Kelly
good to know, thanks
14 upvotes
Lydia Young
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
14 upvotes
Hudson P.
honestly same experience here
11 upvotes
sfgirl2020
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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