Hey everyone, Crime rate is something to consider -Fair Oaks sits at 453.6 per 100K. The city has invested a lot in new development. What are your go-to spots?
6 upvotes
14 Replies
Walter M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Baltimore about 13 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Definitely worth checking out..
36 upvotes
Cameron W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Baltimore about 10 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
31 upvotes
Maverick Myers
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
30 upvotes
Audrey J.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
30 upvotes
Valentina Ramos
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 49, moved here 13 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Old Town and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited entertainment options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The food scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Dallas, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
25 upvotes
Henry Gomez
Bought a house here in 2020 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
21 upvotes
Philip C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely better than expected and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Uptown) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
21 upvotes
Logan Phillips
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
19 upvotes
Riley Gray
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Downtown. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in tech. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Matthew W.
noted, appreciate it
13 upvotes
Kinsley Reed
Moved here from Tampa about 4 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to weather but Feel free to reach out with questions..
12 upvotes
Kennedy Lewis
Bought a house here in 2020 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
6 upvotes
Judy S.
Came here for work and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The cultural scene is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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