Been meaning to ask this. Born and raised here. Household incomes average around $48,816 in Hazen. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
3 upvotes
12 Replies
Isaiah Moore
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
37 upvotes
Ashley T.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 9 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Leah Bennett
great question, following
34 upvotes
Bella W.
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 14 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Sunset and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally improving - 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 nightlife situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K 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.
34 upvotes
Wesley Cooper
Used to live on the South side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
32 upvotes
Noah Ross
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to San Diego it's solid.
30 upvotes
Aubrey Hill
Bought a house here in 2023 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
26 upvotes
Adrian
honestly same experience here
20 upvotes
Jeremy R.
Came here for retirement and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The nightlife is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
13 upvotes
Aubrey C.
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much developing but now it's better than expected.
11 upvotes
Madelyn K.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 15 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.