Not sure if this has been asked before, but Household incomes average around $148,438 in Montgomery. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Am I overthinking this? Appreciate any input. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to.
6 upvotes
11 Replies
Ellie Price
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely average and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Springfield) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
39 upvotes
Katherine Johnson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Nashville about 10 years ago. The main reasons were work and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
38 upvotes
Everly Garcia
following this thread
36 upvotes
Maria S.
I'm a chef and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
34 upvotes
Cooper
I work in hospitality here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is pretty good. Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
Cooper Richardson
glad someone said it
32 upvotes
Camila Roberts
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Quinn Hernandez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
26 upvotes
henry_heart
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
25 upvotes
Cooper Brooks
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is safety. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
14 upvotes
born_thomas3
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 2 years. Moved from Chicago for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are excellent. 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. Nightlife is limited. Bugs and humidity in summer. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.