Hi all, I'm originally from Portland and The unemployment rate is 8.5%, which is concerning. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Thoughts? I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
4 upvotes
11 Replies
Scarlett Hughes
I've lived in Fairview for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
- The job market scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Hope this helps!.
34 upvotes
Kelly H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 42, moved here 15 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Fairview and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Summers can be brutally hot
3. The cost of living situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Tampa, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
31 upvotes
Sophia R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from LA about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Daniel Myers
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much pricey but now it's pretty good.
30 upvotes
Serenity Sanders
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely tough and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Maple Ridge) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
24 upvotes
Madison W.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely improving and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Eastside) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Homeless population growing 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.
21 upvotes
Gianna Collins
I work in healthcare here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is pretty good. Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Chloe Garcia
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 3 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
16 upvotes
Nevaeh
Moved here last year, no regrets.
11 upvotes
Greyson Morgan
I work in manufacturing here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is tough. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
8 upvotes
Aubrey Rivera
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is improving in most areas.
All Countries
