Random thought, We have two kids and Poverty rate is 15.5%, which is higher than I expected. The unemployment rate is 2.3%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Does this match your experience? The city has invested a lot in new development.
27 upvotes
12 Replies
Serenity P.
Moved here from Boston about 1 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to school system but Happy to answer more specific questions..
39 upvotes
David R.
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- The traffic scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Everett P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Minneapolis about 14 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Eli Moore
it depends on the neighborhood
27 upvotes
Connor Price
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 1 years. Moved from Baltimore for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2020 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. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. healthcare 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 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. North schools are surprisingly good. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited shopping options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Piper T.
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Westside area are solid. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
jax_christian
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Greenfield. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in finance. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Hope this helps!.
17 upvotes
Natalie Martinez
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
16 upvotes
Zoey Gomez
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great sushi places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
14 upvotes
portland_kai
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Aurora L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 9 years. Moved from San Francisco for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is average - 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. Midtown schools are average. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Limited entertainment options. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
3 upvotes
Andrew Martinez
I've lived in Old Town for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Close to major attractions
- The outdoor recreation scene is improving
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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