Anyone else feel this way? I'm single, late 30s, and The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
11 upvotes
14 Replies
thomas_lover
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
40 upvotes
milwaukeenative2023
underrated comment
39 upvotes
Adeline M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 25, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in The Heights and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The school system situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 LA, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K 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
Julian
100%
28 upvotes
Delilah James
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
26 upvotes
Nathan R.
noted, appreciate it
22 upvotes
Sebastian Adams
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much established but now it's hit or miss.
20 upvotes
Addison P.
I work in hospitality here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is excellent. No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Addison Foster
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 9 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
16 upvotes
Valentina Richardson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 58, moved here 9 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in The Heights and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for singles. tough vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Charlotte, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
16 upvotes
Paisley Cooper
I work in retail here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
Harper Sanders
facts
4 upvotes
Matthew Mitchell
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The weather is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
4 upvotes
Cooper Martin
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
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