We have two kids and Household incomes average around $104,219 in Fullerton. Homes are going for about $859,600 on average. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Worth the trade-offs? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
52 upvotes
3 Replies
Rachel J.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely tough and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Springfield) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
29 upvotes
Eva Wright
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it exceeded my expectations. Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
Brooklyn
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 8 years. Moved from Raleigh for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2018 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:**
manufacturing is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are pretty good. 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. Limited public transit options. Property taxes are high. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
All Countries
