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Liam Perez
jobs
Commute times in DeLand -how bad?
Hey everyone, Should I be concerned? The weather takes some getting used to.
0 upvotes
26 Replies
Julian Carter
I've lived in Uptown for about 8 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 Austin, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Close to major attractions
- The safety scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Close to major attractions
- The safety scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Luna Wright
been saying this for years
39 upvotes
Douglas R.
great question, following
36 upvotes
Elijah
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Happy to answer more specific questions..
34 upvotes
Nevaeh Richardson
this is the way
33 upvotes
Anna Rivera
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
33 upvotes
Axel Hernandez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely tough and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Fairview) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely tough and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Fairview) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
33 upvotes
Hannah Ramos
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is public transit. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
31 upvotes
Ava Cruz
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Pine Hills. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in finance. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Definitely worth checking out..
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Pine Hills. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in finance. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Leonardo P.
literally same
25 upvotes
Maya Roberts
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 15 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood 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. Winters are long and cold. Urban sprawl is real. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Lakewood for 15 years. Moved from Chicago for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2022 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. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood 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. Winters are long and cold. Urban sprawl is real. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Jace Long
following this thread
22 upvotes
indy_carson
+1
21 upvotes
Carson Morris
Came here for family and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The housing market is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
20 upvotes
Clara Nelson
big facts right here
20 upvotes
Judith J.
I've lived in Lakewood for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Decent public transit for the size
- The public transit scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Decent public transit for the size
- The public transit scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
19 upvotes
nolavibes2025
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Nashville about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is tough.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Nashville about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is tough.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
fresno_emma
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Springfield area are solid. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Cynthia W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 43, moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The public transit situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 43, moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The public transit situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
15 upvotes
Skylar
Moved here last year, no regrets.
13 upvotes
chloe_girl
I've lived in The Heights for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The walkability scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. No regrets on my end..
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The walkability scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. No regrets on my end..
12 upvotes
Robert W.
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Cooper Scott
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
10 upvotes
Connor Green
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely challenging and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Springfield) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely challenging and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Springfield) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
4 upvotes
Maya Morris
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 13 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
I've been here 13 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
4 upvotes
Isaac Campbell
I've lived in Sunset for about 3 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 San Diego, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- The walkability scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- The walkability scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
4 upvotes