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Noah C.
jobs
Working remotely from Minneapolis
The median home value here is around $345,600, which seems about average.
6 upvotes
36 Replies
Natalie Alvarez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Raleigh about 9 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Happy to answer more specific questions..
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Raleigh about 9 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Brooklyn Martin
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 13 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. construction 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is decent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are improving. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Homeless population growing downtown. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
I've been in Midtown for 13 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. construction 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is decent - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are improving. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Homeless population growing downtown. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
tampa_paisley
Moved here from Baltimore about 11 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to housing market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
39 upvotes
Nathan Martin
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely tough and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely tough and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
39 upvotes
Andrew
Came here for quality of life and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The housing market is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
39 upvotes
Grace Lewis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 38, moved here 6 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Phoenix, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
Background: I'm a contractor, 38, moved here 6 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Phoenix, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
38 upvotes
Sarah Y.
I've lived in South for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- The cultural scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- The cultural scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
Axel Williams
Used to live on the East side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
35 upvotes
Cameron Y.
spot on
30 upvotes
Ezra Mendoza
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
30 upvotes
Avery W.
noted, appreciate it
29 upvotes
Aiden B.
hard disagree but ok
29 upvotes
Xavier Davis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 28, moved here 14 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Downtown and North, 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 hit or miss - 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 outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Dallas, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is growing. 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.
Background: I'm a social worker, 28, moved here 14 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Downtown and North, 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 hit or miss - 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 outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- North: 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 Dallas, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is growing. 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.
27 upvotes
Charlotte Richardson
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
indypapa2021
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Happy to answer more specific questions..
24 upvotes
Katherine Reyes
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Sunset) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Sunset) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
21 upvotes
Elijah
Moved here from Miami about 1 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to safety but Happy to answer more specific questions..
20 upvotes
Landon Robinson
I work in education here and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The job market for my field is decent. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Bella E.
Public transit is excellent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
20 upvotes
noah_native
The food scene here is pretty good. Tons of great craft beer places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
18 upvotes
Ruth T.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely decent and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (North) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
If you value healthcare, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely decent and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (North) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
18 upvotes
Abigail T.
Saving this thread
18 upvotes
Anna
Came here for work and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The pet-friendliness is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
14 upvotes
Henry Cox
I've lived in Greenfield for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Hope this helps!.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Hope this helps!.
12 upvotes
alexander_vibes
I'm a real estate agent and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
12 upvotes
Victoria Castillo
Saving this thread
9 upvotes
Isla T.
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
6 upvotes
Brooklyn Myers
100%
6 upvotes
Julia C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 48, moved here 11 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in The Heights and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The job market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. decent 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 Atlanta, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 48, moved here 11 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in The Heights and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The job market situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. decent 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 Atlanta, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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
Aiden Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 5 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
I've been here 5 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
5 upvotes
Vivian R.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 12 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
I've been here 12 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Ellie
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 28, moved here 11 years ago from New York. I've lived in Highland and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for couples. tough 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K 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.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 28, moved here 11 years ago from New York. I've lived in Highland and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for couples. tough 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K 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.
4 upvotes
Brielle Cox
Weather-wise, the summers are tough and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
2 upvotes
Keith H.
haha yep pretty much
2 upvotes
Silas Thomas
yep
1 upvotes
Declan Watson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely improving and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely improving and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Limited shopping options.
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.
0 upvotes