Been meaning to ask this. Poverty rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $176,600 on average. Rent is about $843/month for a decent place. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What do you all think? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
4 upvotes
8 Replies
Samuel
haha yep pretty much
39 upvotes
Dominic Richardson
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
33 upvotes
Judith M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely improving and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Highland) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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
Madelyn
good to know, thanks
14 upvotes
dc_genesis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 6 years. Moved from Houston for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are solid. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Can feel isolated. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Nicholas
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much established but now it's pretty good.
4 upvotes
Dylan Nelson
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
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