Anyone else feel this way? We're a young couple and Household incomes average around $94,792 in Covina. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Has anyone dealt with this? Thanks in advance!
18 upvotes
6 Replies
Alexander T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 37, moved here 7 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Springfield and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Close to major attractions
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The traffic situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Portland, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K 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.
32 upvotes
Quinn H.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Marie P.
Bought a house here in 2018 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
10 upvotes
Cameron
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 5 years. Moved from Dallas for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2020 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:**
marketing is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is average - we have biking trails 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 better than expected. 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. Winters are long and cold. Road conditions need improvement. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Julia Ross
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 8 years. Moved from San Francisco for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Dating scene is rough. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Samuel Foster
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 2 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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