Random thought, We have two kids and Property taxes are high but you get good services. Does this match your experience?
52 upvotes
14 Replies
Julian Miller
Totally agree!
40 upvotes
Joshua Collins
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Atlanta it's average.
37 upvotes
Valentina R.
I work in hospitality here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is decent. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Ava Nguyen
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Ezekiel Gonzalez
Used to live on the West side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
36 upvotes
Elizabeth James
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
Isaac Gonzalez
Used to live on the North side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
34 upvotes
Evelyn Chavez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 12 years. Moved from Minneapolis for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. legal 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have state parks 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 solid. 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. Dating scene is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Aurora Jones
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
26 upvotes
Virginia K.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely pretty good and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
19 upvotes
Piper Sanchez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 34, moved here 7 years ago from LA. I've lived in Eastside and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 LA, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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
Xavier Ross
exactly what I was thinking
11 upvotes
Zoey M.
Came here for quality of life and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The school system is honestly pretty good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
10 upvotes
Bennett Edwards
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Westside area are tough. Kids love it here.