Anyone else feel this way? Just moved here 1 months ago and With a population of 4,576, Gates is a small town. Median household income is $54,003, which feels on the lower side for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,525/month for a decent place. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. Am I overthinking this? Thanks for reading. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
0 upvotes
12 Replies
Kennedy R.
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much growing but now it's underrated.
40 upvotes
Alice Moore
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
38 upvotes
Bennett Ward
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 9 years. Moved from San Francisco for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. Eastside 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. Urban sprawl is real. Road conditions need improvement. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Paisley S.
haha yep pretty much
25 upvotes
sacramentosoul2021
been saying this for years
24 upvotes
Mackenzie Foster
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Portland it's better than expected.
21 upvotes
Jesse H.
nah I disagree
11 upvotes
Kinsley M.
I work in real estate here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is improving. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
10 upvotes
Bella
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Boston it's excellent.
10 upvotes
Hudson Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 39, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Midtown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good schools in most areas
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. challenging 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 San Diego, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
9 upvotes
Serenity Nguyen
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
5 upvotes
Matthew F.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 1 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is underrated.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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