The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $269,800, which seems about average. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
55 upvotes
21 Replies
Nathan Cook
it depends on the neighborhood
39 upvotes
Jackson Kelly
been saying this for years
35 upvotes
Allison A.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
wild_james59
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
34 upvotes
Isaiah Lewis
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
30 upvotes
Scarlett Nelson
thanks for sharing
29 upvotes
Brooks W.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
29 upvotes
Ellie Martin
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Downtown area are challenging. Kids love it here.
27 upvotes
Eliana Walker
I'm a data analyst and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
victoria_mama
thanks for sharing
24 upvotes
Cora Rodriguez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 2 years. Moved from Austin for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are hit or miss. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Not very walkable outside downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
madeline_soul
yeah no that's not right
21 upvotes
Luke Collins
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is decent in most areas.
15 upvotes
Riley
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 58, moved here 11 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Downtown and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The healthcare situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for young professionals. 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 Atlanta, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K 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.
12 upvotes
Gabriella Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Atlanta about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Definitely worth checking out..
11 upvotes
Vivian Kim
underrated comment
9 upvotes
Austin Murphy
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cost of living is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
9 upvotes
Kaylee Carter
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
8 upvotes
Cooper Garcia
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great seafood places. it was the best decision I ever made.
5 upvotes
Brooklyn Thompson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Tampa about 2 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..