I'm single, late 20s, and It's a a small town city with about 7,249 people. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Kinsley R.
been saying this for years
39 upvotes
Lily Thomas
facts
37 upvotes
Ralph C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
35 upvotes
Hunter Walker
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Highland area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Ezra Hughes
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 5 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Michael Phillips
noted, appreciate it
29 upvotes
Henry Foster
Moved here from Portland about 8 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to safety but Hope this helps!.
27 upvotes
Robert Walker
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if housing market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
24 upvotes
Alexander D.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 53, moved here 5 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Sunset and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The school system situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Baltimore, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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
Pamela J.
following this thread
15 upvotes
Aaliyah Sanchez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
14 upvotes
Serenity M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Chicago about 1 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are reasonable, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
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