Median household income is $106,798, which feels pretty solid for the area. The median home value here is around $348,800, which seems about average. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Am I wrong here? The food scene here is surprisingly good.
8 upvotes
13 Replies
Samuel
this is the way
39 upvotes
Easton
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is improving in most areas.
38 upvotes
Ezekiel Ramos
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
31 upvotes
Emma Garcia
yep
29 upvotes
Mackenzie F.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Raleigh about 15 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Good luck with whatever you decide..
27 upvotes
Jace Wright
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 8 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
marketing is strong here. education 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's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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 better than expected. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited shopping options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Mateo Thompson
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much growing but now it's better than expected.
24 upvotes
Jameson Castillo
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great seafood places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
23 upvotes
Timothy C.
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
23 upvotes
Caroline Stewart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from New York about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Active local events and festivals
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
19 upvotes
phoenix_gabriel
Can confirm, been here 6 years.
12 upvotes
Maya K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 36, moved here 1 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in North and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Four distinct seasons
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited shopping options
3. The walkability situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.
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