Been meaning to ask this. I've been here for 15 years and Rent is about $783/month for a decent place. Homes are going for about $233,500 on average. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Anyone in a similar situation? The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
15 upvotes
7 Replies
desert_ella26
it depends on the neighborhood
36 upvotes
Andrew
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Caroline Morris
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Samuel Bennett
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 54, moved here 4 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Riverside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 San Francisco, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $80K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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
Doris R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
21 upvotes
Michael H.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Baltimore it's solid.
1 upvotes
Henry Jimenez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Baltimore about 10 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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