The unemployment rate is 4.6%, which is about average. Household incomes average around $96,522 in Homewood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
12 upvotes
14 Replies
Joyce R.
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
37 upvotes
Ava
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from San Diego about 2 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is challenging.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Genesis
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
31 upvotes
raised_sophie44
great question, following
31 upvotes
nashvillemama2020
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 14 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Delilah Young
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 12 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Maple Ridge side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Willow
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Minneapolis about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are established, gas is improving.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Serenity R.
Came here for work and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The traffic is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
27 upvotes
Everly Murphy
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from LA about 2 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong job market in several industries
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
24 upvotes
Alexa Price
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
22 upvotes
Claire Gonzalez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely challenging and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
17 upvotes
Mason Brown
great question, following
13 upvotes
Jeremiah King
I've lived in East for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport with direct flights
- The outdoor recreation scene is average
The downsides:
- Dating scene is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
10 upvotes
Isabella Morris
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 13 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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