Hey everyone, I've been here for 2 years and You can expect to pay around $1,417 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 2.7%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Am I wrong here? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
4 upvotes
11 Replies
Carolyn C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely average and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Eastside) is established 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 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.
36 upvotes
Brooks
Saving this thread
36 upvotes
wild_violet50
100%
36 upvotes
Elizabeth C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 49, moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in South and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Affordable housing options
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited shopping options
3. The healthcare situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K 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.
34 upvotes
Natalie Jimenez
preach
31 upvotes
Judith R.
Totally agree!
25 upvotes
tampagirl2023
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
Eliana Reyes
been saying this for years
20 upvotes
Diane S.
+1
20 upvotes
Adrian Jones
literally same
14 upvotes
Noah W.
Bought a house here in 2022 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone about the same since then.
All Countries
