Not sure if this has been asked before, but Crime rate is something to consider -Laguna Park sits at 144.2 per 100K. You can expect to pay around $906 for rent here. The city has invested a lot in new development. Is this normal for Laguna Park? Thanks! The suburbs are where most families end up.
2 upvotes
11 Replies
Wesley Martin
I've lived in Springfield for about 5 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 Pittsburgh, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- The walkability scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Definitely worth checking out..
36 upvotes
Riley Lee
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 15 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. consulting 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Pine Hills 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. Road conditions need improvement. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Waylon Clark
this is the way
33 upvotes
Evan D.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Brenda R.
Came here for quality of life and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The community vibe is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
20 upvotes
Michael
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 15 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
18 upvotes
Sharon T.
Moved here from Miami about 14 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to walkability but Definitely worth checking out..
17 upvotes
Matthew
Moved here from Miami about 9 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to cultural scene but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
9 upvotes
Paisley Williams
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 15 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
7 upvotes
Olivia
Moved here from San Diego about 6 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to nightlife but Hope this helps!.
6 upvotes
Amelia Ramos
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 37, moved here 8 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Homeless population growing downtown
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. solid vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K 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.
All Countries
