Longtime lurker here, I'm a teacher here and Rent is about $1,196/month for a decent place. It's a a small town city with about 21,710 people. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
7 upvotes
10 Replies
Christian Young
yeah no that's not right
35 upvotes
Jace Hughes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 13 years. Moved from Charlotte for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are hit or miss. 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. Limited shopping options. Dating scene is rough. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Sebastian H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I genuinely enjoy living here. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
30 upvotes
Nova
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is challenging in most areas.
28 upvotes
Elena Davis
this is the way
19 upvotes
Michael Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 33, moved here 10 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Lakewood and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The traffic situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Charlotte, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
18 upvotes
Sadie Nelson
thanks for sharing
13 upvotes
Genesis G.
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
8 upvotes
portland_carson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is challenging in most areas.
3 upvotes
John Garcia
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely pretty good and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (South) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
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