Sign In Register
Eleanor P. best-worst

Dakota Ridge vs Phoenix -which is better?

I relocated for work and Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $2,103/month for a decent place. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Would love some local perspective. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
5 upvotes

7 Replies

Dylan Torres
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:

Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in South. It's solid for what you get.

Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in real estate you might struggle.

People: Generally pretty good. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.

Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Italian.

It's not for everyone but it works for us..
21 upvotes
Maya Martinez
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
20 upvotes
Jameson T.
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
9 upvotes
Elena
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to LA it's pretty good.
8 upvotes
Colton Jones
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:

Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in West. It's pretty good for what you get.

Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in legal. If you're in engineering you might struggle.

People: Generally pretty good. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.

Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like craft beer.

It's not for everyone but it works for us..
7 upvotes
Charlotte Nelson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from LA about 15 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.

Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
- Affordable housing options

Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Bugs and humidity in summer

Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is excellent.

Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
2 upvotes
Eli Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Eastside for 2 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.

**Employment:**
government is strong here. manufacturing 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 improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside 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. Nightlife is limited. Limited entertainment options. And walkability can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
1 upvotes
← Back to Dakota Ridge Community