OK so I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Would love some local perspective. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
13 upvotes
11 Replies
Alexa
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
25 upvotes
Sadie R.
haha yep pretty much
24 upvotes
James
yep
23 upvotes
Eli Hill
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from LA about 2 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are stable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Feel free to reach out with questions..
22 upvotes
Jack W.
not my experience at all
19 upvotes
lake_emilia15
I work in government here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is tough. No regrets on my end..
15 upvotes
Thomas Wood
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
Julian Watson
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Mexican places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
14 upvotes
Brielle Wright
I work in legal here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is excellent. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..