Hey, Median household income is $50,436, which feels on the lower side for the area. Household incomes average around $50,436 in Kingsport. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Has anyone dealt with this? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up.
0 upvotes
12 Replies
Reagan Adams
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Tampa it's decent.
40 upvotes
Julia Anderson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Lakewood for 7 years. Moved from New York for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Lakewood schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Can feel isolated. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Abigail F.
I work in hospitality here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is challenging. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
18 upvotes
Elena A.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if cultural scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
17 upvotes
cincy_brielle
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
indy_jayden
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
12 upvotes
Nolan Smith
hmm interesting perspective
10 upvotes
Ethan Wright
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Definitely worth checking out..
8 upvotes
Jonathan Cook
I've lived in East for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Diverse dining options
- The pet-friendliness scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
6 upvotes
Vivian W.
Moved here from Austin about 2 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to walkability but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
5 upvotes
Isabella C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely tough and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Downtown) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
1 upvotes
Charles P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 12 years. Moved from Miami for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is solid - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are tough. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited high-paying job options. Chain restaurants dominate. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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