Most overrated things about Cottonwood CDP (Kern County)
Hey, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 39.0%, which is higher than I expected. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
9 upvotes
6 Replies
mesa_theodore
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
30 upvotes
Sadie Campbell
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Southern places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
29 upvotes
Adeline
Bought a house here in 2019 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
13 upvotes
Leo W.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Close to major attractions
- The job market scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Happy to answer more specific questions..
12 upvotes
Emma Howard
Bought a house here in 2024 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
12 upvotes
Xavier Rodriguez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 31, moved here 10 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Oak Park and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The outdoor recreation situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K 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.
All Countries
