The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Knik-Fairview sits at 579.1 per 100K. Median household income is $95,000, which feels pretty solid for the area. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Appreciate any input. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
8 upvotes
13 Replies
portland_samuel
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
40 upvotes
Avery C.
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Maple Ridge side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
39 upvotes
Bennett Hughes
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 9 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
35 upvotes
Caleb Evans
this is the way
30 upvotes
Jonathan Stewart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Minneapolis about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is solid.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Jaxon J.
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much pricey but now it's tough.
21 upvotes
Leonardo Green
wish I knew this sooner
17 upvotes
Jaxon Flores
Moved here from Minneapolis about 4 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to traffic but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Lucy W.
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
15 upvotes
milwaukeenative2023
Can confirm, been here 13 years.
10 upvotes
Gianna Rogers
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Raleigh it's decent.
9 upvotes
Nova Edwards
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 46, moved here 15 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Fairview and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for remote workers. tough 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 Phoenix, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
9 upvotes
Ralph F.
I work in healthcare here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is challenging. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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