I'm a remote worker and Household incomes average around $76,258 in Crete. The median home value here is around $203,900, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
8 Replies
Asher Robinson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Charlotte about 13 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
34 upvotes
Jack Martinez
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The school system is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
33 upvotes
Madelyn Morales
underrated comment
33 upvotes
Adrian Gray
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Oak Park. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in education. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
27 upvotes
Gabriel King
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in North. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in finance. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Hope this helps!.
27 upvotes
Dominic Reed
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 46, moved here 6 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in The Heights and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
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