Random thought, I'm originally from Pittsburgh and Rent is about $778/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. What would you do?
13 upvotes
12 Replies
Reagan Martinez
good to know, thanks
39 upvotes
Hazel
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Westside. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in engineering. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Elena Clark
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Portland about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Good luck with whatever you decide..
36 upvotes
Savannah Adams
Saving this thread
31 upvotes
Jonathan Stewart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Denver about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- 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 competitive, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
Sophia
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great Korean places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
22 upvotes
Maverick Alvarez
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it was the best decision I ever made.
21 upvotes
Stella Morris
Public transit is surprisingly good here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
19 upvotes
Everly
Saving this thread
17 upvotes
Wesley
spot on
14 upvotes
philly_landon
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Eastside. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in education. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
9 upvotes
Alice Lee
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 26, moved here 15 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Highland and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The nightlife situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$90K 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.
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