Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a college student here and The unemployment rate is 3.2%, which is pretty low. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Thoughts?
6 upvotes
17 Replies
Julia W.
I've lived in Uptown for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from San Diego, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- The school system scene is challenging
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
40 upvotes
Hazel Rodriguez
I work in real estate here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
David M.
been saying this for years
37 upvotes
Carson Allen
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Asian places. I love the pace of life here.
36 upvotes
Adeline Morgan
I've lived in Downtown for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Decent public transit for the size
- The safety scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
35 upvotes
Joyce C.
big facts right here
33 upvotes
Benjamin P.
I work in healthcare here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Natalie T.
seconding this
28 upvotes
Nathan
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Austin it's excellent.
28 upvotes
Jose M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely pretty good and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Sunset) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
24 upvotes
Melanie C.
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great craft beer places. it exceeded my expectations.
13 upvotes
Carolyn F.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 24, moved here 14 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Springfield and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Affordable housing options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The housing market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 Miami, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
12 upvotes
Scarlett Williams
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
11 upvotes
Maverick
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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