I'm a teacher here and It's a a small town city with about 12,554 people. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 28.9%, which is higher than I expected. Homes are going for about $250,400 on average. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
0 upvotes
15 Replies
Riley W.
This.
35 upvotes
Lydia Patel
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
33 upvotes
elizabeth_lover
noted, appreciate it
28 upvotes
Sophie Watson
glad someone said it
28 upvotes
Santiago Reyes
haha yep pretty much
27 upvotes
Richard B.
preach
27 upvotes
Sophia Gray
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
27 upvotes
Vivian
good to know, thanks
20 upvotes
Nova Allen
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Boston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Pine Hills. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
16 upvotes
Evan Rogers
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 7 years. Moved from Dallas for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are challenging. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Can feel isolated. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
12 upvotes
Arianna Davis
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (East) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
11 upvotes
Kenneth S.
100%
11 upvotes
Bobby T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 45, moved here 7 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Eastside and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The housing market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
6 upvotes
Zoey Jackson
Came here for retirement and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor recreation is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
4 upvotes
Mateo Ward
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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