Hey, I'm originally from Tampa and It's a a small town city with about 22,330 people. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Anyone in a similar situation? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
3 upvotes
9 Replies
Jameson Rivera
This.
38 upvotes
Ian G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 12 years. Moved from Seattle for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. North schools are better than expected. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Dating scene is rough. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Hailey Nguyen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 35, moved here 13 years ago from LA. I've lived in Riverside and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. excellent 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 LA, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
22 upvotes
Isaiah Lewis
thanks for sharing
20 upvotes
Peyton Gomez
following this thread
15 upvotes
Thomas Ramirez
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Downtown area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Waylon
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it exceeded my expectations. Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Kinsley G.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The food scene is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
2 upvotes
Mateo
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
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