So, Crime rate is something to consider -Hampstead sits at 109.4 per 100K. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What are your go-to spots? TIA! It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
6 upvotes
6 Replies
Nova
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Fairview. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Definitely worth checking out..
23 upvotes
Alice Lee
exactly what I was thinking
20 upvotes
James
Bought a house here in 2018 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone about the same since then.
16 upvotes
William Lee
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 42, moved here 9 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Westside and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Austin, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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
Violet Moore
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want school system, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
11 upvotes
Jonathan
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is decent in most areas.
All Countries
