Homes are going for about $351,600 on average. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
4 upvotes
15 Replies
Josiah
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Atlanta about 9 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is improving.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Good luck with whatever you decide..
40 upvotes
Patrick G.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to San Francisco it's tough.
35 upvotes
Sarah Thomas
honestly same experience here
33 upvotes
Sadie
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
33 upvotes
river_ezekiel4
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Aubrey Hernandez
good to know, thanks
27 upvotes
Luna Jones
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 8 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is solid - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are tough. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Lillian Price
Moved here last year, no regrets.
21 upvotes
Willow C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
17 upvotes
Owen Gomez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Miami about 11 years ago. The main reasons were work and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
17 upvotes
Piper Sanchez
following this thread
17 upvotes
Nova Reyes
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
15 upvotes
Brenda H.
bump
11 upvotes
Nathan A.
couldn't agree more
9 upvotes
ellie_girl
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
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