So, With a population of 17,235, Danville is a small town. The median home value here is around $202,200, which is actually reasonable. You can expect to pay around $767 for rent here. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Thoughts? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
14 upvotes
13 Replies
Alice Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 39, moved here 8 years ago from New York. I've lived in Downtown and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cost of living situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. better than expected 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 New York, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K 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.
40 upvotes
Valentina K.
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
33 upvotes
Paisley S.
been saying this for years
30 upvotes
Austin Patel
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 9 years. Moved from Denver for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - 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. North schools are tough. 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. Limited public transit options. Rising rent and home prices. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
jeremiah_girl
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 40, moved here 10 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Springfield and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The housing market situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. average vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Nashville, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
18 upvotes
happy_claire91
Can confirm, been here 7 years.
16 upvotes
Thomas Williams
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
16 upvotes
Daniel Thompson
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Sunset area are tough. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Kinsley Green
I work in education here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Hannah Mitchell
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is excellent in most areas.
7 upvotes
Amelia Cook
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
6 upvotes
Madeline H.
I've lived in East for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The public transit scene is improving
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
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