Hey everyone, The median home value here is around $248,900, which is actually reasonable. Average temperature is around 71--F, so it's warm year-round. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Am I overthinking this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
24 upvotes
14 Replies
David B.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Good luck with whatever you decide..
36 upvotes
Karen P.
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
35 upvotes
Austin E.
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 13 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to nightlife but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
33 upvotes
Landon Torres
this is the way
31 upvotes
Charles J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Baltimore about 7 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is decent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Abigail D.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely average and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (The Heights) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
29 upvotes
Hannah Davis
Bought a house here in 2015 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
28 upvotes
Andrew Kelly
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Phoenix about 4 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
20 upvotes
Ian M.
I've lived in Meadowbrook for about 15 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 San Diego, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Alice Wright
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from LA about 13 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Close to major attractions
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is improving.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
11 upvotes
Hudson Ortiz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 7 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are hit or miss. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Limited shopping options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Adam Walker
noted, appreciate it
4 upvotes
Samuel Garcia
Bought a house here in 2020 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
3 upvotes
Lisa L.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Seattle it's average.