Born and raised here. Crime rate is something to consider -Marion sits at 269.3 per 100K. The unemployment rate is 4.5%, which is about average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
17 upvotes
12 Replies
Melanie A.
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cultural scene used to be much growing but now it's tough.
36 upvotes
Henry
haha yep pretty much
36 upvotes
Owen K.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Melanie Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 36, moved here 11 years ago from LA. I've lived in Eastside and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The job market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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
Emilia Murphy
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 3 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Greenfield side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
28 upvotes
Genesis Carter
noted, appreciate it
21 upvotes
omaharider2020
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The job market is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
17 upvotes
Valentina Smith
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
16 upvotes
Grayson Campbell
Came here for work and stayed because it's exactly what I was looking for. The public transit is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
11 upvotes
Hailey
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Natalie Campbell
haha yep pretty much
4 upvotes
Ruby Allen
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
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