I've been here for 16 years and Poverty rate is 2.7%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $579,100 on average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What are your go-to spots? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
11 upvotes
13 Replies
Nova Clark
as a local I can confirm
39 upvotes
Jameson Cook
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
36 upvotes
true_joshua86
I'm a accountant and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
34 upvotes
Victoria Cruz
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
33 upvotes
Jaxon
Came here for weather and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor recreation is honestly tough and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
33 upvotes
Scarlett A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 29, moved here 12 years ago from LA. I've lived in Oak Park and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The healthcare situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 LA, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Linda L.
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Wesley S.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Silas T.
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Nova Ortiz
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The healthcare is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Ezekiel James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 34, moved here 2 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in East and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - 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 job market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
12 upvotes
real_ezekiel33
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The dating scene is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
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