Alright, The unemployment rate is 4.5%, which is about average. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
25 upvotes
23 Replies
Alexa Lopez
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
40 upvotes
Kayden Cook
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 4 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the West side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Levi Stewart
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 4 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is decent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are tough. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited entertainment options. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
joseph_life
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
35 upvotes
Aaron Jimenez
This.
34 upvotes
Alexa Cook
noted, appreciate it
34 upvotes
Jackson Nguyen
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is improving in most areas.
31 upvotes
Emilia B.
noted, appreciate it
29 upvotes
Elena Robinson
nah I disagree
22 upvotes
Kinsley Sanders
exactly what I was thinking
19 upvotes
Carson Morgan
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want traffic, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
14 upvotes
Angel A.
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Old Town area are underrated. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Willow Martin
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely decent and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Uptown) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Homeless population growing downtown.
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.
11 upvotes
Nancy B.
thanks for sharing
9 upvotes
Jordan Brown
as a local I can confirm
8 upvotes
Carter Gomez
noted, appreciate it
7 upvotes
Matthew Reyes
not my experience at all
7 upvotes
Wesley Jimenez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
5 upvotes
denver_isabelle
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
3 upvotes
Melanie Ward
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Uptown. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Hope this helps!.
3 upvotes
Ezekiel A.
seconding this
2 upvotes
Anna Sanchez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
2 upvotes
Henry
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
All Countries
