Not sure if this has been asked before, but It's a a small town city with about 17,538 people. Homes are going for about $375,300 on average. The unemployment rate is 3.0%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $123,427, which feels pretty solid for the area. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living
- Friendly people
- Nice parks and trails
- Low taxes
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons:
- Hot summers
- Sprawl everywhere
- Mosquitoes and humidity
- Chain restaurants dominate
Anyone in a similar situation? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
9 Replies
Michael G.
wish I knew this sooner
40 upvotes
Nicholas Ortiz
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
37 upvotes
Christian Williams
hmm interesting perspective
34 upvotes
Quinn L.
Came here for work and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor recreation is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
Valentina M.
nah I disagree
18 upvotes
Dylan Clark
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Minneapolis about 9 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Active local events and festivals
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Good luck with whatever you decide..
17 upvotes
Cora K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 27, moved here 9 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited entertainment options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cultural scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for young professionals. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Boston, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
8 upvotes
Levi Lee
Moved here from LA about 8 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to cost of living but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
2 upvotes
Greyson A.
I work in education here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Happy to answer more specific questions..
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