Just moved here 17 months ago and Crime rate is something to consider -Lorain sits at 451.4 per 100K. The unemployment rate is 4.0%, which is pretty low. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
1 upvotes
12 Replies
Doris W.
spot on
35 upvotes
Thomas Evans
I work in hospitality here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is challenging. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
Levi Ruiz
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
29 upvotes
Easton
This.
27 upvotes
Ella Lee
Used to live on the Highland side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
23 upvotes
Avery S.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Lauren H.
this is the way
14 upvotes
lake_lucas63
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is average in most areas.
14 upvotes
Kayden Morales
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 2 years. Moved from Baltimore for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. manufacturing 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 exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is decent - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are solid. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Piper Gomez
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The dating scene scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. No regrets on my end..
9 upvotes
Nora
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 27, moved here 4 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The outdoor recreation situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is pricey. 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.
4 upvotes
Bella Y.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely average and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Fairview) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Dating scene 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.
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