Hey everyone, The unemployment rate is 5.2%, which is about average. Crime rate is something to consider -Dodgeville sits at 127.3 per 100K. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Is this normal for Dodgeville? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
7 upvotes
4 Replies
Isla W.
hmm interesting perspective
40 upvotes
luca_rider
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 45, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in Old Town and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cultural scene situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 LA, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
36 upvotes
John Baker
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 3 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
wild_daniel4
Moved here from Miami about 12 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to safety but Happy to answer more specific questions..