Hey, I work in engineering and Median household income is $77,886, which feels about average for the area. You can expect to pay around $776 for rent here. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What would you do? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
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Henry Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 39, moved here 14 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Riverside and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited shopping options
3. The community vibe situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 Chicago, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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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