All Countries
Aiden Hughes
qa
Best coffee shops in Chesapeake?
OK so Homes are going for about $359,100 on average. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
35 upvotes
38 Replies
Eva Young
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Greenfield. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Greenfield. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
minneapolisvibes2024
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
39 upvotes
Adam Adams
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
38 upvotes
Sadie S.
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
37 upvotes
Isabelle Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 4 years. Moved from Austin for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are average. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Springfield for 4 years. Moved from Austin for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are average. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 6/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Landon M.
+1
36 upvotes
Aubrey
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Highland. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Hope this helps!.
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Highland. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Hope this helps!.
35 upvotes
Dominic Davis
I'm a accountant and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
32 upvotes
Kayden
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely challenging and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Sunset) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely challenging and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Sunset) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
32 upvotes
Brooklyn Hernandez
same here
31 upvotes
Thomas Gutierrez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 34, moved here 5 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
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. Limited high-paying job options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K 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.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 34, moved here 5 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
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. Limited high-paying job options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K 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.
30 upvotes
Eliana Bailey
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely challenging and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (North) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely challenging and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (North) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
30 upvotes
river_axel20
facts
28 upvotes
Lucy Smith
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
28 upvotes
Cooper Lewis
hard disagree but ok
28 upvotes
Willow Walker
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 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 2-bed in Fairview. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in consulting. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like seafood.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Fairview. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in consulting. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like seafood.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
27 upvotes
Emma Peterson
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in South area are solid. Kids love it here.
24 upvotes
Arianna Scott
The food scene here is average. Tons of great craft beer places. it's been a really good experience overall.
24 upvotes
Delilah Thomas
underrated comment
22 upvotes
everly_native
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood 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. Road conditions need improvement. Dating scene is rough. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Lakewood for 3 years. Moved from Houston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood 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. Road conditions need improvement. Dating scene is rough. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Mia L.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Miles Lewis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 4 years. Moved from Portland for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are improving. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited high-paying job options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Midtown for 4 years. Moved from Portland for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are improving. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Limited high-paying job options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Brooklyn Young
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Baltimore about 7 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is average.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Hope this helps!.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Baltimore about 7 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is average.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Judith R.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if walkability matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
15 upvotes
Hunter
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 7 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
I've been here 7 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
14 upvotes
Daniel M.
Totally agree!
14 upvotes
dallasdude2022
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is pet-friendliness. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
cincygirl2020
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The traffic is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
13 upvotes
Jonathan White
accurate
12 upvotes
Evan R.
I've lived in Highland for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Close to major attractions
- The community vibe scene is average
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Close to major attractions
- The community vibe scene is average
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Riley Perez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 54, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in Old Town and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The food scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
Background: I'm a contractor, 54, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in Old Town and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The food scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
10 upvotes
Jaxon Evans
lol so true
9 upvotes
Ezekiel Morales
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is solid in most areas.
7 upvotes
indy_ian
it depends on the neighborhood
3 upvotes
Eva R.
Bought a house here in 2018 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
1 upvotes
Camila Mendoza
great question, following
1 upvotes
Cameron Wright
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
0 upvotes
sacramento_weston
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Houston about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. No regrets on my end..
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Houston about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. No regrets on my end..
0 upvotes