Hey, I'm a remote worker and Average temperature is around 46--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $1,657 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -East Ithaca sits at 277.8 per 100K. Poverty rate is 1.5%, which is pretty low. The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Any advice would be great. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
10 upvotes
8 Replies
Luke
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Easton
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 39, moved here 1 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Highland and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The housing market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for retirees. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Boston, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
35 upvotes
Sophie Carter
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 6 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into running, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
23 upvotes
Sarah M.
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The school system is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Daniel Williams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 28, moved here 11 years ago from LA. I've lived in Downtown and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The housing market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 LA, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
18 upvotes
Mateo L.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
11 upvotes
Henry Gray
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.