Not sure if this has been asked before, but Crime rate is something to consider -Fern Park sits at 499.2 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Should I be concerned? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
3 upvotes
12 Replies
David Martin
this is the way
39 upvotes
Roman B.
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The healthcare is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
32 upvotes
Eugene A.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is improving in most areas.
19 upvotes
oakland_gianna
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is tough in most areas.
18 upvotes
Ryan R.
hard disagree but ok
15 upvotes
Amelia Phillips
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Salt Lake City it's better than expected.
14 upvotes
Stella Roberts
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 48, moved here 6 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Riverside and East, 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. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for families. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
13 upvotes
Ruby Gomez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 54, moved here 14 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Westside and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The dating scene situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for retirees. tough 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 Phoenix, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
11 upvotes
Claire R.
I'm a teacher and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
9 upvotes
Angel Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 56, moved here 7 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Lakewood and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited entertainment options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Chicago, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
8 upvotes
Hudson Carter
following this thread
5 upvotes
Alice Martinez
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The safety is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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