I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The healthcare is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Eleanor Cook
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
30 upvotes
Daniel Thomas
this is the way
28 upvotes
Sofia
Moved here from Atlanta about 5 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to housing market but Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Lydia Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 56, moved here 5 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Midtown and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The outdoor recreation situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 affordable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K 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.
24 upvotes
omaha_nicholas
yeah no that's not right
24 upvotes
Jonathan Phillips
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Lakewood. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in legal. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
jacob_guy
literally same
23 upvotes
William A.
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in South area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
Jacob T.
underrated comment
16 upvotes
Wyatt Rogers
Saving this thread
14 upvotes
Leo Edwards
Can confirm, been here 10 years.
13 upvotes
Isaiah Miller
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 53, moved here 4 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Westside and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for couples. better than expected 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 Miami, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
13 upvotes
Caroline Ramirez
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 5 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to healthcare but Happy to answer more specific questions..
11 upvotes
Zoe Baker
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Cedar Grove area are tough. Kids love it here.