The unemployment rate is 2.4%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $324,900 on average. Median household income is $102,032, which feels pretty solid for the area. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Has anyone dealt with this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
14 upvotes
12 Replies
Brielle Diaz
big facts right here
40 upvotes
Mackenzie Murphy
bump
40 upvotes
happy_john40
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The public transit is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Ella Hernandez
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
Harper Kim
couldn't agree more
34 upvotes
Declan G.
honestly same experience here
34 upvotes
Piper Jones
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
26 upvotes
Mia Sanchez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Highland. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in legal. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Adrian Watson
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great craft beer places. it exceeded my expectations.
14 upvotes
Anna Rodriguez
Used to live on the Eastside side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
6 upvotes
Brielle G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 48, moved here 7 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Highland and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for families. decent 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 Nashville, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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
Jose Evans
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 2 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.