Anyone else feel this way? Just moved here 6 months ago and Median household income is $65,775, which feels about average for the area. It's a a smaller city city with about 43,536 people. Rent is about $1,202/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 4.4%, which is about average. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
Pros:
- Good job market
- Growing food scene
- Diverse community
- Strong sense of community
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons:
- Limited dining options
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Mosquitoes and humidity
- Far from major airports
What would you do? Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
28 upvotes
10 Replies
Lydia R.
glad someone said it
39 upvotes
Bennett Wilson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is solid.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
34 upvotes
oakland_sadie
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
30 upvotes
Levi Young
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Atlanta about 8 years ago. The main reasons were family and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is excellent.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Silas T.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
12 upvotes
Nova James
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 11 years. Moved from San Francisco for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are excellent. 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. Limited shopping options. Limited entertainment options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Elijah
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
8 upvotes
Mia M.
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great craft beer places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
7 upvotes
Benjamin
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
7 upvotes
Kathryn C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from New York about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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