It's a a smaller city city with about 50,907 people. You can expect to pay around $1,041 for rent here. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. What would you do? Thanks! The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. 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. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to.
20 upvotes
8 Replies
Emilia B.
Bought a house here in 2021 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
26 upvotes
Eli Brooks
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are reasonable. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Lawrence A.
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Fairview area are improving. Kids love it here.
23 upvotes
violet_runner
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely pretty good and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
20 upvotes
clara_vibes
spot on
13 upvotes
Addison Bennett
yep
12 upvotes
Emilia Gomez
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Ezekiel
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 48, moved here 13 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Eastside and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally better than expected - 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:**
- Eastside: Great for families. 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 Charlotte, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.