Alright, I'm a remote worker and You can expect to pay around $1,443 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -James Island sits at 439.6 per 100K. The median home value here is around $454,200, which is pretty steep. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Thanks! The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
6 upvotes
6 Replies
Sofia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 50, moved here 15 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
25 upvotes
Ellie S.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
23 upvotes
Elena Chavez
I've lived in Greenfield for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Close to major attractions
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
Mackenzie C.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
16 upvotes
Savannah King
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Phoenix about 11 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
13 upvotes
Roman Y.
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much competitive but now it's surprisingly good.