Hey, I'm a teacher here and Poverty rate is 5.3%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $2,075/month for a decent place. It's a a smaller city city with about 25,824 people. Average temperature is around 77--F, so it's warm year-round. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The city has invested a lot in new development.
2 upvotes
3 Replies
Ezra Allen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 38, moved here 5 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Lakewood and Downtown, 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. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The dating scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. solid vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K 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.
32 upvotes
Charles G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 32, moved here 12 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Eastside and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
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. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The safety situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for singles. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Atlanta, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
28 upvotes
Avery Cook
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely solid and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
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