So, I'm single, late 40s, and The unemployment rate is 3.3%, which is pretty low. It's a a smaller city city with about 83,316 people. The weather takes some getting used to. Would love some local perspective. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
12 upvotes
7 Replies
Victoria Edwards
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 51, moved here 14 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Downtown and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally challenging - 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 school system situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Austin, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K 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.
33 upvotes
Carson Carter
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely underrated and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
32 upvotes
nicholas_mind
underrated comment
26 upvotes
Waylon H.
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Asher Clark
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is better than expected in most areas.
16 upvotes
Bella Thompson
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
10 upvotes
Daniel Nguyen
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The pet-friendliness is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
All Countries
