Hey everyone, Just moved here 8 months ago and Crime rate is something to consider -DeKalb sits at 577.5 per 100K. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Is this normal for DeKalb? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
1 upvotes
13 Replies
dc_jose
I work in marketing here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Definitely worth checking out..
38 upvotes
Kyle Y.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Seattle it's better than expected.
36 upvotes
Henry Myers
accurate
35 upvotes
Allison Ortiz
noted, appreciate it
25 upvotes
Clara Lopez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 26, moved here 12 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Westside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Charlotte, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
25 upvotes
John J.
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much affordable but now it's pretty good.
21 upvotes
Madeline Bennett
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
18 upvotes
emilia_local
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 1 years. Moved from Chicago for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. consulting 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:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have rivers 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 solid. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Bugs and humidity in summer. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
13 upvotes
Michael
Moved here from Miami about 10 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to job market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Connor T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
9 upvotes
Katherine K.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Thai places. it was the best decision I ever made.
9 upvotes
Isabelle Perez
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
6 upvotes
Maya Baker
I've lived in Fairview for about 7 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 Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
- The school system scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..