We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 19.9%, which is higher than I expected. Let me know your thoughts.
20 upvotes
16 Replies
local_theodore86
preach
40 upvotes
sacramento_nolan
I've lived in West for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The cost of living scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Definitely worth checking out..
40 upvotes
Logan Moore
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
38 upvotes
Hudson J.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
35 upvotes
Harper
seconding this
33 upvotes
Nevaeh Anderson
Moved here from Nashville about 11 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to housing market but Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Autumn Jackson
I work in manufacturing here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is better than expected. Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Emma Cooper
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Riverside. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in tech. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Definitely worth checking out..
29 upvotes
Jack Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Greenfield for 1 years. Moved from Boston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2024 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. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. tech 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:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is improving - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Greenfield schools are excellent. 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. Dating scene is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Grace Hill
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Adrian Hughes
big facts right here
18 upvotes
Hazel Parker
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Axel
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. weather used to be much affordable but now it's decent.
16 upvotes
Adrian H.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
16 upvotes
Nicholas H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 57, moved here 6 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Downtown and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Phoenix, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K 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.