Thinking about relocating to Montclair State University from Boston
Hello, I'm single, late 20s, and The unemployment rate is 2.2%, which is pretty low. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. What would you do? Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development.
2 upvotes
8 Replies
Logan Alvarez
This.
40 upvotes
Landon Morris
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
39 upvotes
Eva Reyes
accurate
32 upvotes
Christian Gray
it depends on the neighborhood
14 upvotes
Zoe Cook
Saving this thread
11 upvotes
Quinn
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 39, moved here 9 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Sunset and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Boston, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
7 upvotes
Lori K.
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great Korean places. it's been a really good experience overall.
4 upvotes
Stella Lee
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
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