Hey, I'm retired and You can expect to pay around $845 for rent here. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Am I wrong here? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
3 upvotes
7 Replies
river_sarah72
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 51, moved here 9 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Downtown and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The community vibe situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Portland, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
38 upvotes
nashvillefan2024
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from San Francisco about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
Sofia Cooper
great question, following
13 upvotes
Kinsley Campbell
+1
12 upvotes
Rylee Williams
been saying this for years
9 upvotes
Weston
Came here for school and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Denise H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Chicago about 6 years ago. The main reasons were school and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are affordable, gas is decent.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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