Random thought, I relocated for work and The median home value here is around $314,200, which seems about average. The unemployment rate is 4.0%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $53,623, which feels on the lower side for the area. Poverty rate is 12.8%, which is around average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Has anyone dealt with this? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
16 upvotes
15 Replies
Kai Williams
I've lived in Midtown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The pet-friendliness scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Katherine
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 9 years. Moved from LA for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is solid - we have ski resorts 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 pretty good. 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 high-paying job options. Limited entertainment options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Johnny R.
exactly what I was thinking
34 upvotes
Mason
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
portlandlife2020
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Charlotte about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is excellent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Definitely worth checking out..
31 upvotes
Audrey G.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Charlotte about 6 years ago. The main reasons were family and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is excellent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
29 upvotes
Scarlett Turner
bump
28 upvotes
Pamela R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 29, moved here 4 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Springfield and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Houston, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K 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.
26 upvotes
Jacob M.
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
tulsa_lucas
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
Luna Martin
Can confirm, been here 13 years.
13 upvotes
Colton
same here
12 upvotes
Bella
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Eastside. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in government. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Italian.
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