Been living here since 2006. The unemployment rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Jasper sits at 238.0 per 100K. Poverty rate is 18.1%, which is higher than I expected. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
11 upvotes
12 Replies
Matthew Patel
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Hope this helps!.
31 upvotes
Luke Gonzalez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
23 upvotes
John R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 13 years. Moved from Chicago for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is decent - we have lakes 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 better than expected. 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. Limited high-paying job options. Homeless population growing downtown. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Jose Ross
I'm a HR manager and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
21 upvotes
Zachary H.
it depends on the neighborhood
20 upvotes
Jackson Jimenez
100%
17 upvotes
David M.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
17 upvotes
Carter Carter
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Indian places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
15 upvotes
Jeremiah Reyes
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The cost of living is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
13 upvotes
Noah G.
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much established but now it's average.
12 upvotes
Chloe Reyes
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Aubrey Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 51, moved here 7 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The food scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for remote workers. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
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