First post here. I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $346,200 on average. The city has invested a lot in new development. Has anyone dealt with this?
6 upvotes
10 Replies
Lillian Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 6 years. Moved from New York for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. marketing 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. East schools are surprisingly 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. Road conditions need improvement. Homeless population growing downtown. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Quinn Roberts
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Atlanta it's better than expected.
34 upvotes
mesa_camila
I'm a pharmacist and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
23 upvotes
Ryan H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 51, moved here 4 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in South and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The weather situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Baltimore, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
23 upvotes
isaiah_local
interesting, hadn't considered that
22 upvotes
Xavier Ruiz
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely decent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare 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.
21 upvotes
Dylan
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
17 upvotes
Piper S.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
10 upvotes
Isabella Moore
not my experience at all
6 upvotes
Gianna Alvarez
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Vietnamese places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
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