Hey, I work in manufacturing and Poverty rate is 0.6%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $880,100, which is pretty steep. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. Thoughts? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
5 upvotes
8 Replies
Matthew Scott
seconding this
38 upvotes
Ian C.
I work in finance here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Nicholas Martinez
it depends on the neighborhood
37 upvotes
Adeline Ruiz
Used to live on the East side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
33 upvotes
Valentina Clark
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Dominic
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
13 upvotes
Alexander Mitchell
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
12 upvotes
Gianna
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 49, moved here 6 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Lakewood and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Affordable housing options
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Property taxes are high
3. The pet-friendliness situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Chicago, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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