Curious what people think. Just moved here 12 months ago and Homes are going for about $872,100 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
8 upvotes
13 Replies
Kai Patel
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The safety is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Lydia P.
preach
32 upvotes
Eva Reyes
yeah no that's not right
30 upvotes
Jeremiah Myers
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
27 upvotes
Cora Nelson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 14 years. Moved from San Diego for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. 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 excellent. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Ruby T.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
22 upvotes
Arianna M.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- The weather scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited public transit options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for remote workers. Hope this helps!.
21 upvotes
Aaliyah Phillips
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
14 upvotes
Nova Smith
Moved here from Nashville about 9 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to cost of living but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Nevaeh Brooks
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 14 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
6 upvotes
Rebecca F.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want nightlife, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
2 upvotes
Charlotte Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 34, moved here 12 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Greenfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Property taxes are high
3. The traffic situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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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