Random thought, We have two kids and The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. With a population of 58,418, Margate is a smaller city. Average temperature is around 76--F, so it's warm year-round. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Has anyone dealt with this? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
8 upvotes
9 Replies
William Evans
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Springfield for 11 years. Moved from Baltimore for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Springfield schools are better than expected. 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 safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Levi Johnson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely solid and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (South) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
33 upvotes
Connor
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
29 upvotes
Nova E.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
28 upvotes
Nolan Smith
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 15 years. Moved from Houston for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
hospitality is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - 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. Downtown schools are tough. 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. Road conditions need improvement. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Vivian T.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
Santiago
Bought a house here in 2022 and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Property values have gone about the same since then.
14 upvotes
Everett Gray
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
11 upvotes
Jacob Morales
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
the quality of life is solid. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
- The traffic scene is decent
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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