Not sure if this has been asked before, but Born and raised here. With a population of 5,330, Hollywood is a small town. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Thanks!
6 upvotes
15 Replies
Miles Peterson
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The walkability is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
40 upvotes
Sebastian W.
honestly same experience here
37 upvotes
Gabriella Peterson
Moved here from Raleigh about 13 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to outdoor recreation but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Hunter Roberts
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Scarlett Reed
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Greenfield for 2 years. Moved from Austin for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Greenfield schools are surprisingly 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. Property taxes are high. Far from beaches/mountains. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 5/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Daniel Brown
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Springfield area are improving. Kids love it here.
18 upvotes
Jacob M.
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
17 upvotes
Natalie P.
+1
14 upvotes
Andrew Bennett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from New York about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is decent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
10 upvotes
Ian Harris
great question, following
10 upvotes
Willow
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 45, moved here 9 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Affordable housing options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The healthcare situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for remote workers. average vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Phoenix, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K 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
James B.
I'm a teacher and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
9 upvotes
Luke M.
I've lived in North for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The job market scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
6 upvotes
Riley Lee
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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