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Arianna Thompson
moving
Relocating to Eden Prairie, MN -pros and cons?
Anyone else feel this way? Homes are going for about $463,300 on average.
17 upvotes
27 Replies
Luna Williams
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
mesa_harper
I'm a data analyst and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
born_emily79
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from LA about 10 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is average.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from LA about 10 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is average.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Leo Ruiz
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
32 upvotes
Aaron M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely average and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Springfield) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely average and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Springfield) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
30 upvotes
Bennett Thompson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
29 upvotes
Emilia Brooks
yeah no that's not right
26 upvotes
Andrew
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 46, moved here 5 years ago from LA. I've lived in Oak Park and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The food scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$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.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 46, moved here 5 years ago from LA. I've lived in Oak Park and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The food scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$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.
25 upvotes
Ian
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The public transit is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
Audrey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 6 years. Moved from Baltimore for cost of living. 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield 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. Urban sprawl is real. Far from beaches/mountains. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Springfield for 6 years. Moved from Baltimore for cost of living. 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. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield 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. Urban sprawl is real. Far from beaches/mountains. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Addison Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 1 years. Moved from Tampa for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Westside for 1 years. Moved from Tampa for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes 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 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Wesley L.
+1
22 upvotes
Sofia Howard
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
Everly Gutierrez
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The walkability is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Camila R.
Came here for retirement and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The housing market is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
18 upvotes
Elijah C.
great question, following
14 upvotes
evan_mind
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Raleigh it's tough.
13 upvotes
Valentina Johnson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is excellent in most areas.
13 upvotes
Adam Gomez
honestly same experience here
13 upvotes
Carolyn W.
+1
12 upvotes
Aaliyah Robinson
big facts right here
8 upvotes
Hazel Long
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 11 years. Moved from Charlotte for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have state parks 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 underrated. 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. Winters are long and cold. Property taxes are high. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Eastside for 11 years. Moved from Charlotte for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have state parks 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 underrated. 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. Winters are long and cold. Property taxes are high. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
7 upvotes
Bella Ramos
I'm a HR manager and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is average and there's always something going on.
6 upvotes
Jean P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 24, moved here 6 years ago from New York. I've lived in West and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K 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.
Background: I'm a project manager, 24, moved here 6 years ago from New York. I've lived in West and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K 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.
4 upvotes
Violet Allen
Bought a house here in 2018 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
4 upvotes
Scarlett Kim
facts
3 upvotes
Hazel
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great seafood places. it was the best decision I ever made.
0 upvotes