So, My partner and I are Median household income is $53,164, which feels on the lower side for the area. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
9 upvotes
13 Replies
desert_everly48
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 55, moved here 9 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Westside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The job market situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Denver, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
39 upvotes
Harper Torres
As someone who grew up here, it's exactly what I was looking for. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much manageable but now it's better than expected.
37 upvotes
Cora Jackson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
36 upvotes
Cynthia L.
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
33 upvotes
Daniel F.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is improving in most areas.
31 upvotes
Naomi Peterson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 55, moved here 10 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Springfield and Highland, 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. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited shopping options
3. The job market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Houston, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
29 upvotes
Wesley J.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 36, moved here 14 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally pretty good - 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 established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for remote workers. solid 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 San Diego, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
17 upvotes
Chloe
big facts right here
15 upvotes
Julia Long
preach
14 upvotes
Shirley G.
noted, appreciate it
14 upvotes
Carson Ruiz
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Charlotte it's solid.
10 upvotes
Zachary G.
seconding this
8 upvotes
Evelyn S.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
All Countries
