Alright, Rent is about $1,892/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 7.0%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Downey sits at 313.4 per 100K. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Worth the trade-offs? Appreciate any input. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
38 upvotes
8 Replies
Mason B.
facts
36 upvotes
Luke Ruiz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Tampa about 3 years ago. The main reasons were work and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
35 upvotes
Barbara M.
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The pet-friendliness is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
24 upvotes
desert_weston65
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in South. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in legal. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
sarah_heart
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Kayden Ross
+1
16 upvotes
Ezra Price
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
12 upvotes
Aurora Wood
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The community vibe is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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