Alright, It's a a small town city with about 8,711 people. Anyone in a similar situation?
6 upvotes
6 Replies
Ezra Patel
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 13 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for a fresh start. 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 about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is average - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview 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. Dating scene is rough. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
William Sanchez
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Mediterranean places. it was the best decision I ever made.
18 upvotes
Andrew Sanders
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 46, moved here 8 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Pine Hills and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited shopping options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Houston, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$70K 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.
17 upvotes
Kaylee Sanders
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are tough, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
10 upvotes
Megan H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from Charlotte for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is tough - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are surprisingly good. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Limited entertainment options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, 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.
9 upvotes
Jace Gray
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.