Been meaning to ask this. Rent is about $544/month for a decent place. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Thanks for reading. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
0 upvotes
13 Replies
Hunter H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 52, moved here 14 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Riverside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Chicago, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K 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.
35 upvotes
Nova James
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cost of living is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Madelyn Mendoza
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Boston it's better than expected.
28 upvotes
Luna Ruiz
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cultural scene is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Philip M.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
27 upvotes
urban_david20
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
cora_soul
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
18 upvotes
Natalie Bailey
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
17 upvotes
kai_soul
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely underrated and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
14 upvotes
Santiago Young
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
12 upvotes
Joshua Price
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is underrated in most areas.
11 upvotes
Joseph S.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want public transit, then yeah this place is great. But if housing market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
10 upvotes
Joshua Clark
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The housing market is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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