Been meaning to ask this. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Should I be concerned? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
0 upvotes
12 Replies
Gabriel A.
Saving this thread
39 upvotes
Ryan H.
accurate
38 upvotes
columbusliving2024
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Portland about 8 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Mateo Adams
I've lived in The Heights for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- The dating scene scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for remote workers. Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
Isaac T.
I'm a pharmacist and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
27 upvotes
Luna Jones
I'm a pharmacist and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is challenging and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Isabelle Green
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 55, moved here 7 years ago from LA. I've lived in Riverside and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 LA, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
26 upvotes
Easton Mitchell
hmm interesting perspective
20 upvotes
Sophie White
honestly same experience here
15 upvotes
Jacob
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
11 upvotes
Noah
this is the way
11 upvotes
true_vivian81
I've lived in South for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- The cost of living scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..