Anyone else feel this way? Been living here since 2023. The unemployment rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 44--F, so bundle up in winter. The median home value here is around $466,100, which is pretty steep. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Leonardo Baker
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Harper H.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Eastside) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Houston, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
39 upvotes
Denise R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Nashville and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Springfield. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is competitive right now, especially in education. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Dylan Young
as a local I can confirm
31 upvotes
Carol C.
honestly same experience here
26 upvotes
Roman Wood
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 9 years. Moved from New York for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
marketing is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are hit or miss. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Limited entertainment options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Julian Ward
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are surprisingly good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Audrey Roberts
literally same
21 upvotes
Landon
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 8 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the The Heights side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
18 upvotes
Brooklyn Watson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Denver it's solid.
12 upvotes
Thomas Ross
bump
11 upvotes
Andrew Wood
great question, following
11 upvotes
Evelyn P.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Chicago and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Cedar Grove. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in government. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 17 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
7 upvotes
Brooks S.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to San Diego it's solid.
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