So, Crime rate is something to consider -La Vale sits at 731.7 per 100K. The unemployment rate is 1.8%, which is pretty low. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Worth the trade-offs? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
13 upvotes
15 Replies
Adrian
hard disagree but ok
40 upvotes
Kenneth A.
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much growing but now it's better than expected.
35 upvotes
samuel_chef
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 10 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
33 upvotes
Joshua Baker
couldn't agree more
31 upvotes
Aubrey Hughes
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 12 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The East side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
29 upvotes
Daniel Alvarez
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 3 years here, that's my honest assessment.
26 upvotes
Kai Sanders
I've been living here for 7 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The cost of living is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Jeremiah Taylor
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor recreation is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Rylee Hernandez
Bought a house here in 2023 and I have mixed feelings honestly. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
11 upvotes
Mark R.
I'm a chef and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
11 upvotes
Daniel Peterson
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
7 upvotes
Aaron White
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 54, moved here 1 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Tampa, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K 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.
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