So, I'm a teacher here and Crime rate is something to consider -Chicopee sits at 614.9 per 100K. Median household income is $66,927, which feels about average for the area. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What do you all think? The city has invested a lot in new development.
23 upvotes
7 Replies
Hudson Campbell
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
30 upvotes
Dylan B.
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The healthcare is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
14 upvotes
Ella Allen
following this thread
12 upvotes
Lydia Howard
seconding this
10 upvotes
Stella Rogers
Bought a house here in 2017 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone about the same since then.
9 upvotes
ruby_local
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 45, moved here 4 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Downtown and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Denver, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K 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.
7 upvotes
Aubrey Thomas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 30, moved here 15 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Uptown and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Can feel isolated
3. The job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.