Relocating to East Lake-Orient Park, FL -pros and cons?
Not sure if this has been asked before, but We're a young couple and Household incomes average around $56,623 in East Lake-Orient Park. It's a a smaller city city with about 29,064 people. You can expect to pay around $1,417 for rent here. Homes are going for about $221,500 on average. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Let me know your thoughts. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development.
25 upvotes
10 Replies
phillydude2021
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Bugs and humidity in summer
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. No regrets on my end..
40 upvotes
Leah Parker
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Nathan Rivera
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 32, moved here 7 years ago from Denver. I've lived in North and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Denver, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
36 upvotes
Emily Bailey
following this thread
27 upvotes
Eli Cook
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Eastside. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in tech. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
No regrets on my end..
25 upvotes
Mason Foster
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Korean places. it exceeded my expectations.
14 upvotes
Audrey Hall
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 10 years. Moved from Boston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have national forests 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 improving. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Winters are long and cold. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Matthew Garcia
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Meadowbrook area are improving. Kids love it here.
6 upvotes
Bella White
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
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