Hello, The median home value here is around $168,100, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 65--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Wesley Davis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 6 years. Moved from Nashville for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are challenging. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Chain restaurants dominate. Far from beaches/mountains. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Benjamin White
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
26 upvotes
Brooklyn Ward
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want housing market, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
23 upvotes
Chloe Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Phoenix about 15 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is better than expected.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
22 upvotes
Grace Collins
this is the way
22 upvotes
Jaxon Patel
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Charlotte about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
William Foster
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
14 upvotes
Sebastian Foster
nah I disagree
12 upvotes
Caroline Scott
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to Portland it's underrated.
11 upvotes
Robert Collins
I work in consulting here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
10 upvotes
Bennett Lopez
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The public transit is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
9 upvotes
David L.
I've lived in West for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The job market scene is decent
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
8 upvotes
Scarlett P.
I work in engineering here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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