Affordable areas near Finneytown?

Hunter Walker Dec 17, 2025

OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a social worker, 51, moved here 3 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Eastside and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K 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.

31 upvotes

Mary R. Nov 24, 2025

Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a social worker who relocated here from LA about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.

Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Lots of new development happening

Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited shopping options

Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are manageable, gas is pretty good.

Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..

23 upvotes