First post here. I'm originally from Baltimore and Median household income is $62,108, which feels about average for the area. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. What do you all think?
6 upvotes
12 Replies
Axel James
big facts right here
39 upvotes
Asher Bailey
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The weather is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
28 upvotes
Joan N.
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
28 upvotes
Everly Alvarez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 40, moved here 11 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in West and Highland, 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. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for remote workers. solid vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Raleigh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K 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.
27 upvotes
Bella Anderson
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Jose Ortiz
big facts right here
19 upvotes
Piper Allen
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Springfield. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Carson B.
it depends on the neighborhood
14 upvotes
Lydia Martinez
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much growing but now it's decent.
7 upvotes
Luna Garcia
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
5 upvotes
Oliver Peterson
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
5 upvotes
Ryan E.
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
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