Not sure if this has been asked before, but The median home value here is around $168,300, which is actually reasonable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Anyone in a similar situation? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
10 upvotes
11 Replies
Nicholas Bennett
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
37 upvotes
Matthew T.
good to know, thanks
31 upvotes
James H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 3 years. Moved from Austin for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2023 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. 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. Eastside schools are better than expected. 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. Nightlife is limited. Not very walkable outside downtown. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Austin Williams
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Benjamin K.
honestly same experience here
21 upvotes
phillylocal2021
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Parker Collins
+1
14 upvotes
James C.
spot on
12 upvotes
Nova T.
I work in hospitality here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is challenging. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Elizabeth T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 25, moved here 3 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The job market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 San Francisco, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K 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.
5 upvotes
ellie_chef
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 33, moved here 9 years ago from New York. I've lived in Greenfield and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 New York, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K 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.
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