I'm a remote worker and You can expect to pay around $917 for rent here. Crime rate is something to consider -Jonesboro sits at 279.8 per 100K. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
5 upvotes
13 Replies
eleanor_runner
I'm a sales manager and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
40 upvotes
Mackenzie Green
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Charlotte about 6 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
chicagokid2021
noted, appreciate it
35 upvotes
Ezra
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Chicago about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are reasonable, gas is challenging.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
34 upvotes
Hunter Alvarez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 34, moved here 4 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in East and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The public transit situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K 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.
30 upvotes
detroit_hunter
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Baltimore about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are developing, gas is solid.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
Everly M.
Used to live on the Old Town side, now on the Maple Ridge side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
26 upvotes
Paisley C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Houston about 12 years ago. The main reasons were school and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is better than expected.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Hope this helps!.
25 upvotes
Sophie Ward
Used to live on the Eastside side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
23 upvotes
Lydia Garcia
wish I knew this sooner
19 upvotes
Peyton Campbell
exactly what I was thinking
5 upvotes
Ariana C.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Chicago it's challenging.
5 upvotes
Nicholas Scott
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
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