My family moved here when I was a kid. Median household income is $88,455, which feels pretty solid for the area. Homes are going for about $290,600 on average. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
13 upvotes
4 Replies
Ariana Alvarez
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The food scene is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
36 upvotes
Isabella
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 54, moved here 10 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Greenfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for young professionals. 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 Austin, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
31 upvotes
Grayson Taylor
Bought a house here in 2024 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
29 upvotes
Kennedy E.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 30, moved here 4 years ago from New York. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Can feel isolated
3. The pet-friendliness situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 New York, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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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