First post here. Military spouse here. Household incomes average around $72,019 in Clark Mills. Median household income is $72,019, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 47--F, so expect cold winters. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Should I be concerned? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
8 upvotes
11 Replies
Luna Roberts
Moved here from Seattle about 3 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to safety but Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Sophia Hughes
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 58, moved here 7 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The public transit situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for families. challenging 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 San Francisco, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
39 upvotes
happy_angel67
not my experience at all
37 upvotes
Aria Cruz
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Pine Hills area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
31 upvotes
Karen C.
Weather-wise, the summers are solid and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
29 upvotes
Oliver James
noted, appreciate it
20 upvotes
minneapolis_samuel
+1
16 upvotes
Ava Garcia
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Downtown. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in construction. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Claire H.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.