Anyone else feel this way? My partner and I are Rent is about $1,755/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
0 upvotes
13 Replies
Leonardo P.
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Pine Hills area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
Allison B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 4 years. Moved from Austin for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. 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 4-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South 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. Winters are long and cold. Nightlife is limited. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
34 upvotes
Everett Moore
been saying this for years
29 upvotes
Maverick M.
Bought a house here in 2018 and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
23 upvotes
Naomi Morales
I work in tech here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is excellent. No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Grace Allen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 37, moved here 13 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in North and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Four distinct seasons
2. Diverse dining options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The dating scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K 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.
19 upvotes
Autumn Reyes
Used to live on the East side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
18 upvotes
Asher Scott
great question, following
18 upvotes
Declan Collins
literally same
14 upvotes
Isabelle
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
10 upvotes
Sarah Ruiz
noted, appreciate it
9 upvotes
Maverick Gonzalez
exactly what I was thinking
5 upvotes
Jayden Lee
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem improving.
I've been here 2 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
All Countries
