Curious what people think. I'm originally from Orlando and It's a a smaller city city with about 28,186 people. You can expect to pay around $794 for rent here. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
21 upvotes
10 Replies
Dominic Mendoza
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. the quality of life is solid. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Daniel W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 8 years. Moved from San Diego for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Chain restaurants dominate. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Kayden Davis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 13 years. Moved from Miami for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Meadowbrook 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited high-paying job options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
mountain_waylon60
I'm a chef and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
29 upvotes
Leo J.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
27 upvotes
Hailey
Moved here from Austin about 1 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to job market but Feel free to reach out with questions..
26 upvotes
Andrew
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Denver about 15 years ago. The main reasons were family and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is solid.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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