Been meaning to ask this. Been living here since 2009. Household incomes average around $103,270 in Methuen Town. You can expect to pay around $1,610 for rent here. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
5 upvotes
10 Replies
indy_carson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Emmett Mitchell
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much competitive but now it's better than expected.
37 upvotes
Aria Perez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 8 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
36 upvotes
Connor Adams
yeah no that's not right
27 upvotes
Isabella
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 47, moved here 14 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Riverside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Property taxes are high
3. The cost of living situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for couples. underrated 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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
Elijah Davis
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Christian Gray
thanks for sharing
6 upvotes
Ian
thanks for sharing
2 upvotes
austinheart2022
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 4 years. Moved from Phoenix for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
legal is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is decent - we have biking trails 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 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. Can feel isolated. Far from beaches/mountains. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
1 upvotes
Olivia Bennett
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
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