Hello, Military spouse here. Poverty rate is 4.9%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. Would love some local perspective.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Ryan J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Houston about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
Luke Flores
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Italian places. the quality of life is solid.
28 upvotes
Elizabeth Stewart
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 2 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
26 upvotes
Jacob White
underrated comment
25 upvotes
Wyatt Phillips
honestly same experience here
24 upvotes
Maya Roberts
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The traffic is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
19 upvotes
Pamela J.
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
- The public transit scene is tough
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
17 upvotes
Vivian Wilson
preach
15 upvotes
Everett
Moved here from Atlanta about 7 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to housing market but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Addison Jones
I've lived in Westside for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
- The food scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Good luck with whatever you decide..
10 upvotes
sunny_lucy7
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely decent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Old Town) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene 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.
8 upvotes
Brielle Price
Moved here from San Diego about 4 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to cost of living but Happy to answer more specific questions..
4 upvotes
Eliana Gonzalez
I work in engineering here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is better than expected. Hope this helps!.
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