Hello, The unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is pretty low. Poverty rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $136,071, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Mission Viejo sits at 68.1 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Would love some local perspective. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
20 upvotes
7 Replies
Everly C.
glad someone said it
33 upvotes
Cameron Gomez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 32, moved here 11 years ago from Denver. I've lived in The Heights and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The housing market situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for families. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Denver, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K 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.
31 upvotes
Colton T.
Saving this thread
26 upvotes
Arianna Watson
Bought a house here in 2018 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
17 upvotes
Benjamin P.
Moved here from Nashville about 1 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to healthcare but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
5 upvotes
Michael Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 37, moved here 9 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Fairview and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The healthcare situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Miami, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
0 upvotes
Cora Anderson
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The cost of living is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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