Longtime lurker here, I'm originally from Denver and Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. With a population of 92,415, Mission Viejo is a smaller city. Rent is about $2,713/month for a decent place. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Worth the trade-offs? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
5 upvotes
7 Replies
Gabriella
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 San Francisco for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is improving - we have ski resorts 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 hit or miss. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Chloe Jones
yep
27 upvotes
Melanie P.
nah I disagree
23 upvotes
Isabelle M.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's not perfect but it works for me. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Jonathan Price
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is pet-friendliness. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Charles R.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is average in most areas.
11 upvotes
Grace Hill
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 54, moved here 2 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in North and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Can feel isolated
3. The school system situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 San Diego, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$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.
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