With a population of 3,413, Forks is a small town. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $193,900 on average. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Would love some local perspective. Thanks in advance! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
6 upvotes
12 Replies
Kyle P.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 13 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
33 upvotes
Xavier Jones
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Midtown) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
30 upvotes
Stephen L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 31, moved here 12 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Lakewood and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The housing market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Anna Perez
I work in government here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is improving. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
23 upvotes
real_ella23
spot on
22 upvotes
Eric C.
couldn't agree more
20 upvotes
Santiago Castillo
facts
18 upvotes
Landon Thomas
I've lived in East for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The walkability scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Scarlett Morales
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is average in most areas.
16 upvotes
happy_eliana31
facts
15 upvotes
Leonardo Garcia
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Hope this helps!.
13 upvotes
Sadie G.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
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