Anyone else feel this way? With a population of 32,693, Goleta is a smaller city. Average temperature is around 59--F, so the weather is moderate. Household incomes average around $118,039 in Goleta. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Should I be concerned? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
23 upvotes
13 Replies
Grace Turner
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Salt Lake City it's better than expected.
40 upvotes
Michael Alvarez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 8 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is food scene. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
Xavier
We moved here with our family and I love the pace of life here. Schools in Greenfield area are improving. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
axel_papa
big facts right here
36 upvotes
clara_papa
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from New York about 13 years ago. The main reasons were family and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is tough.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
31 upvotes
Nevaeh Ward
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 14 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
26 upvotes
James Castillo
Saving this thread
23 upvotes
Eleanor Stewart
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Axel
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
12 upvotes
Weston R.
I work in healthcare here and it exceeded my expectations. The job market for my field is excellent. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
11 upvotes
Aaron R.
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.
11 upvotes
Maverick
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
5 upvotes
Douglas C.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 14 years. Moved from Minneapolis for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is tough - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are underrated. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Limited shopping options. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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