We're a young couple and The unemployment rate is 5.6%, which is about average. Crime rate is something to consider -Irmo sits at 311.6 per 100K. Homes are going for about $193,100 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Thanks! It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
4 upvotes
6 Replies
Lillian Harris
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 26, moved here 12 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Springfield and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Miami, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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
sdpapa2021
Bought a house here in 2019 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
25 upvotes
Nova Lewis
Moved here from Atlanta about 4 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to nightlife but Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
leah_guy
wish I knew this sooner
4 upvotes
Serenity Cooper
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in East. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in finance. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
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