Been meaning to ask this. Born and raised here. Median household income is $54,815, which feels on the lower side for the area. With a population of 13,699, Marshall is a small town. Rent is about $769/month for a decent place. It's a a small town city with about 13,699 people. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Thoughts? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Easton Campbell
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from Nashville about 9 years ago. The main reasons were weather and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is average.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Charlotte Chavez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
35 upvotes
Scarlett Kim
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
33 upvotes
Hudson P.
Came here for school and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The dating scene is honestly pretty good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
32 upvotes
Silas Ramirez
I'm a social worker and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
30 upvotes
Alice M.
good to know, thanks
29 upvotes
Jacqueline N.
Can confirm, been here 12 years.
25 upvotes
Ruby Johnson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 51, moved here 12 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Oak Park and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cost of living situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for families. solid vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Boston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
23 upvotes
Natalie Cooper
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 5 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 San Diego, 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
- Decent public transit for the size
- The public transit scene is solid
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for young professionals. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
17 upvotes
John
Bought a house here in 2020 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
16 upvotes
Nolan Perez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Natalie Reed
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cost of living is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
12 upvotes
Zoe King
couldn't agree more
7 upvotes
Nolan Rivera
Bought a house here in 2019 and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Property values have gone up a bit since then.