OK so I'm retired and Homes are going for about $328,000 on average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Avery Kim
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
40 upvotes
Melanie Mendoza
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor recreation is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
Theresa N.
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The cost of living is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
34 upvotes
Charlotte Walker
following this thread
32 upvotes
lucy_mind
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 58, moved here 12 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Oak Park and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The safety situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Boston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K 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.
29 upvotes
Alexa K.
following this thread
25 upvotes
Lucy Lee
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 2 years. Moved from San Diego for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are excellent. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
19 upvotes
Isabelle J.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Uptown. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in construction. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
17 upvotes
Eva Anderson
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The weather is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Avery Scott
Can confirm, been here 12 years.
5 upvotes
Sophia Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 44, moved here 4 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Eastside and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The public transit situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. decent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Tampa, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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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