Alright, I'm originally from Tampa and Crime rate is something to consider -Chester sits at 78.7 per 100K. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
11 upvotes
13 Replies
Isabella Castillo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 55, moved here 10 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Pine Hills and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The cultural scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Charlotte, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
40 upvotes
Alice Reyes
glad someone said it
39 upvotes
minneapolispapa2020
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Cedar Grove area are underrated. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
Ellie Jackson
I'm a physical therapist and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
34 upvotes
Miles F.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
34 upvotes
cincyvibes2024
big facts right here
32 upvotes
Claire
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The housing market is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Clara R.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want cost of living, then yeah this place is great. But if public transit matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
21 upvotes
Delilah W.
noted, appreciate it
19 upvotes
Austin
I've lived in East for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- The cost of living scene is tough
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
9 upvotes
Sophie S.
This.
8 upvotes
Carson S.
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
7 upvotes
Asher Gonzalez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
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