We're a young couple and The median home value here is around $113,100, which is actually reasonable. You can expect to pay around $845 for rent here. Household incomes average around $45,159 in El Dorado. Median household income is $45,159, which feels on the lower side for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Am I wrong here? The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
8 upvotes
13 Replies
Ruby Mitchell
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Happy to answer more specific questions..
37 upvotes
Zoe Gutierrez
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great craft beer places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
36 upvotes
Benjamin Ramirez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Raleigh it's improving.
31 upvotes
Connor Jimenez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 44, moved here 6 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Old Town and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
30 upvotes
Thomas Jimenez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Charlotte about 1 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are manageable, gas is challenging.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
27 upvotes
Peyton Ward
Totally agree!
21 upvotes
Gabriella Baker
This.
20 upvotes
Paisley Anderson
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 school system. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
17 upvotes
Madeline Hall
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The public transit is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
16 upvotes
Jessica K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
10 upvotes
Isla
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
7 upvotes
Jonathan Ward
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. the quality of life is solid.
5 upvotes
Brielle Nelson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Minneapolis about 6 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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