Hello, Average temperature is around 65--F, so the weather is moderate. With a population of 37,553, Monrovia is a smaller city. Rent is about $2,009/month for a decent place. Poverty rate is 7.0%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Am I overthinking this? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
25 upvotes
11 Replies
Brooklyn Walker
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Adeline Hill
I'm a electrician and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is average and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
Jameson Reed
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 1 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in North. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
miles_walker
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from LA about 13 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are affordable, gas is improving.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
30 upvotes
Lily Edwards
following this thread
30 upvotes
Mason Collins
yep
25 upvotes
Hudson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Old Town for 6 years. Moved from Dallas for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Old Town schools are decent. 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 public transit options. Summers can be brutally hot. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
living_madeline27
100%
22 upvotes
Olivia K.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Baltimore, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Four distinct seasons
- The job market scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
17 upvotes
Madeline H.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Riley
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Dallas about 10 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. No regrets on my end..
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