I'm retired and The median home value here is around $244,300, which is actually reasonable. Crime rate is something to consider -Emmaus sits at 61.9 per 100K. It's a a small town city with about 11,727 people. With a population of 11,727, Emmaus is a small town. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Anyone in a similar situation? Thanks for reading. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
15 upvotes
15 Replies
Naomi Hughes
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 45, moved here 14 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Greenfield and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The community vibe situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for young professionals. 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 Seattle, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$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.
36 upvotes
Zoey Smith
Public transit is solid here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
32 upvotes
charlotteheart2022
glad someone said it
30 upvotes
Noah T.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Lillian B.
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
21 upvotes
Connor
Can confirm, been here 7 years.
21 upvotes
Robert Young
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
14 upvotes
Leo M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is challenging in most areas.
14 upvotes
Isabelle Rodriguez
yeah no that's not right
11 upvotes
Quinn Carter
Saving this thread
11 upvotes
Adeline S.
interesting, hadn't considered that
10 upvotes
sebastian_rider
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 13 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
7 upvotes
Michael Sanders
bump
4 upvotes
Victoria W.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
3 upvotes
Leo R.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.