I'm retired and The unemployment rate is 1.3%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,053/month for a decent place. It's a a small town city with about 20,261 people. Average temperature is around 45--F, so bundle up in winter. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
7 upvotes
14 Replies
Roman Scott
I'm a project manager and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
39 upvotes
ella_lover
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 14 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. healthcare 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are solid. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Dating scene is rough. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Matthew P.
underrated comment
37 upvotes
Natalie Walker
Moved here from Dallas about 11 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to school system but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Levi Gonzalez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
Kayden Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 28, moved here 10 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in East and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Seattle, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
28 upvotes
Ruby Roberts
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
25 upvotes
Serenity Phillips
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
18 upvotes
Arianna Evans
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Fairview area are underrated. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Isaiah Gomez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely better than expected and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Fairview) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
12 upvotes
Violet S.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to San Francisco it's pretty good.
12 upvotes
indymind2025
noted, appreciate it
5 upvotes
Piper Lopez
thanks for sharing
4 upvotes
Alexis B.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
All Countries
