Curious what people think. I'm a teacher here and Poverty rate is 10.3%, which is around average. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Anyone in a similar situation? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
0 upvotes
7 Replies
Samuel Davis
hard disagree but ok
33 upvotes
Naomi James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 48, moved here 4 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Springfield and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Close to major attractions
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. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The public transit situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K 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.
22 upvotes
Landon
I've lived in South for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Decent public transit for the size
- The safety scene is tough
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Joseph Collins
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Old Town area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Sadie T.
facts
15 upvotes
Kai Ruiz
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
- The nightlife scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. Feel free to reach out with questions..