Downingtown quality of life -am I missing something?
Longtime lurker here, I'm retired and Poverty rate is 5.2%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Am I wrong here? The city has invested a lot in new development.
7 upvotes
9 Replies
Aurora W.
great question, following
40 upvotes
phillyrunner2025
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
33 upvotes
nyc_sebastian
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 35, moved here 4 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Lakewood and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Charlotte, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
29 upvotes
thomas_heart
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much developing but now it's tough.
23 upvotes
Thomas R.
I've lived in Uptown for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Raleigh, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The pet-friendliness scene is decent
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
20 upvotes
Aiden Turner
following this thread
18 upvotes
Adeline Williams
I've lived in Greenfield for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The housing market scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
11 upvotes
Parker Diaz
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
All Countries
