Alright, Crime rate is something to consider -Massapequa sits at 119.0 per 100K. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. Any advice would be great. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
2 upvotes
15 Replies
Matthew Nelson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 12 years. Moved from San Francisco for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is improving - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West 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 shopping options. Bugs and humidity in summer. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Aria Lopez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
28 upvotes
Olivia P.
lol so true
28 upvotes
Violet Watson
noted, appreciate it
28 upvotes
Douglas R.
This.
24 upvotes
Emilia W.
great question, following
20 upvotes
Nathan Rivera
it depends on the neighborhood
18 upvotes
sdheart2025
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Harper Ruiz
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
11 upvotes
Jeremiah Bailey
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 54, moved here 12 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Midtown and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The public transit situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Raleigh, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K 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.
5 upvotes
Kayla P.
Used to live on the South side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
4 upvotes
Hannah Hughes
lol so true
2 upvotes
Mary N.
Moved here from Chicago about 4 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to job market but Happy to answer more specific questions..
1 upvotes
Kai Murphy
I've lived in Fairview for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The weather scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..