I'm originally from Indianapolis and With a population of 5,899, Hempstead is a small town. Average temperature is around 69--F, so the weather is moderate. Rent is about $1,282/month for a decent place. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. What would you do? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse.
6 upvotes
15 Replies
Angel L.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
Delilah Mendoza
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is average in most areas.
33 upvotes
fresno_adam
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much established but now it's solid.
30 upvotes
Austin G.
lol so true
29 upvotes
Jonathan Peterson
100%
25 upvotes
Ian
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to New York it's tough.
23 upvotes
Maya Thomas
Moved here from Baltimore about 8 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to public transit but Good luck with whatever you decide..
14 upvotes
Hunter Murphy
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
12 upvotes
Connor Lewis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 51, moved here 11 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Springfield and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
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. Nightlife is limited
3. The weather situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Boston, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
10 upvotes
Daniel Turner
yeah no that's not right
9 upvotes
Waylon Cox
yep
8 upvotes
Lucas R.
preach
7 upvotes
Miles Clark
hard disagree but ok
5 upvotes
Nathan L.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
3 upvotes
Aiden Jimenez
Weather-wise, the summers are pretty good and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.