Anyone else feel this way? Household incomes average around $60,756 in Marion. With a population of 2,010, Marion is a small town. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Would love some local perspective. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
10 upvotes
12 Replies
tucson_matthew
lol so true
38 upvotes
Jonathan L.
noted, appreciate it
38 upvotes
Jayden Taylor
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 8 years. Moved from Miami for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. Pine Hills schools are average. 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. Limited public transit options. Limited high-paying job options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Angel Green
I've lived in Oak Park for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Close to major attractions
- The walkability scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Dating scene is rough
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
Ryan E.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 26, moved here 10 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Old Town and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
29 upvotes
Aurora Adams
100%
25 upvotes
Logan Cooper
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
22 upvotes
Bella
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 57, moved here 7 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Can feel isolated
3. The safety situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Austin, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
13 upvotes
Jacob A.
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much affordable but now it's excellent.
12 upvotes
Julian Reyes
big facts right here
11 upvotes
Andrew Bailey
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Boston about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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