Hi all, Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. The city has invested a lot in new development. Am I overthinking this? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up.
14 upvotes
13 Replies
Sophie Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Portland about 9 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
37 upvotes
Valentina Morris
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
36 upvotes
Lucy
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
29 upvotes
Sarah Walker
100%
29 upvotes
Logan Nelson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 11 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Amelia Jimenez
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The housing market is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
26 upvotes
Dylan A.
seconding this
24 upvotes
Nevaeh Perez
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great BBQ places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
24 upvotes
Michael Collins
hard disagree but ok
15 upvotes
Isaac Richardson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 9 years. Moved from Seattle for a job opportunity. 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 down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is solid - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are tough. 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 weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Eliana Hernandez
big facts right here
6 upvotes
Paisley Anderson
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
5 upvotes
Santiago L.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Baltimore about 2 years ago. The main reasons were family and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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