Been meaning to ask this. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What do you all think? Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
28 upvotes
15 Replies
Caleb P.
Saving this thread
39 upvotes
Jerry A.
I've lived in Downtown for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- The nightlife scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
37 upvotes
Camila R.
Totally agree!
36 upvotes
Silas M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
33 upvotes
Ezekiel R.
I work in legal here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
31 upvotes
Caleb S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 41, moved here 1 years ago from LA. I've lived in Uptown and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The weather situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. solid 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 LA, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K 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.
28 upvotes
dallas_lucy
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
22 upvotes
Wyatt Young
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 38, moved here 8 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Sunset and North, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 San Diego, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K 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.
21 upvotes
real_austin18
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great seafood places. it's exactly what I was looking for.
20 upvotes
Elena
Can confirm, been here 14 years.
16 upvotes
Evan
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Sunset area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Mackenzie Lopez
100%
15 upvotes
cincy_dylan
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.
15 upvotes
Everett Kim
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is walkability. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
12 upvotes
Claire Smith
I work in engineering here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is better than expected. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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