So, I'm retired and With a population of 13,052, Fords is a small town. Median household income is $116,250, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 2.4%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Any advice would be great. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Keith R.
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much competitive but now it's tough.
39 upvotes
Valentina Peterson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
39 upvotes
evan_walker
spot on
34 upvotes
Luke Clark
couldn't agree more
29 upvotes
Alexa Martin
great question, following
27 upvotes
Leonardo C.
Moved here from Raleigh about 9 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to cost of living but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Kennedy C.
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Lakewood area are challenging. Kids love it here.
24 upvotes
Luca H.
interesting, hadn't considered that
15 upvotes
Ryan
big facts right here
14 upvotes
Eva Anderson
preach
14 upvotes
Thomas
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Highland. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in legal. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Delilah Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 33, moved here 13 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Springfield and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Active local events and festivals
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 high-paying job options
3. The school system situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
3 upvotes
Caroline Collins
Used to live on the South side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
1 upvotes
Silas Turner
I work in marketing here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
1 upvotes
Patricia T.
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Sunset area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
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