Not sure if this has been asked before, but Average temperature is around 71--F, so it's warm year-round. It's a a smaller city city with about 29,351 people. Poverty rate is 4.3%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $387,400, which seems about average. You can expect to pay around $1,918 for rent here. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Let me know your thoughts. Thanks! Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
18 upvotes
13 Replies
Ellie P.
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much established but now it's tough.
29 upvotes
Austin H.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Phoenix about 3 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
julia_soul
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are tough, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Ethan Morgan
underrated comment
16 upvotes
Sadie Edwards
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Austin about 3 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is challenging.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
13 upvotes
Wyatt M.
as a local I can confirm
13 upvotes
Axel Patel
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 10 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the outdoor recreation is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Maya Lewis
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is improving in most areas.
10 upvotes
Gabriella
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 12 years. Moved from Atlanta for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. government 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are surprisingly good. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Winters are long and cold. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Ian Kim
spot on
8 upvotes
Noah R.
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Lakewood area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
4 upvotes
Greyson Alvarez
haha yep pretty much
3 upvotes
Charlotte Nelson
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
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