Been meaning to ask this. I'm a remote worker and Median household income is $76,591, which feels about average for the area. The median home value here is around $313,500, which seems about average. Homes are going for about $313,500 on average. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
17 upvotes
8 Replies
Ellie O.
facts
26 upvotes
Anna Howard
big facts right here
25 upvotes
Wesley Moore
wish I knew this sooner
22 upvotes
Olivia B.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 41, moved here 7 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Sunset and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The nightlife situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 San Diego, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
19 upvotes
Barbara L.
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
17 upvotes
Randy C.
interesting, hadn't considered that
15 upvotes
evelyn_papa
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Chicago it's underrated.
9 upvotes
Cameron Gomez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 7 years. Moved from Phoenix for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 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:**
healthcare is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are challenging. 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. Limited high-paying job options. Homeless population growing downtown. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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