First post here. I've been here for 6 years and The median home value here is around $220,400, which is actually reasonable. Median household income is $70,913, which feels about average for the area. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
14 upvotes
13 Replies
Ezekiel Allen
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Uptown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
39 upvotes
Carolyn C.
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
34 upvotes
Luca P.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely tough and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Nashville, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Homeless population growing downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
32 upvotes
Gianna Bennett
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Oak Park. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in finance. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Piper Ward
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely pretty good and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Riverside) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
28 upvotes
Evelyn L.
I've lived in Westside for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from New York, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The weather scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for singles. Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Levi Young
100%
26 upvotes
minneapolis_samuel
I work in government here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is pretty good. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
19 upvotes
Theodore Myers
+1
16 upvotes
Riley Wright
honestly same experience here
11 upvotes
Nora Price
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great seafood places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
10 upvotes
Theodore
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor recreation is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Isaac Gutierrez
Public transit is pretty good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
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