Anyone else feel this way? My family moved here when I was a kid.
0 upvotes
11 Replies
Grayson C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 41, moved here 4 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Pine Hills and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong job market in several industries
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. Urban sprawl is real
3. The healthcare situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for remote workers. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Baltimore, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
40 upvotes
Rylee W.
hmm interesting perspective
26 upvotes
Miles
Used to live on the Uptown side, now on the Maple Ridge side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
26 upvotes
oakland_arianna
Moved here from Phoenix about 11 years ago. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Still getting used to food scene but Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
Jacob Taylor
Moved here last year, no regrets.
12 upvotes
Valentina Anderson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 15 years. Moved from Charlotte for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are underrated. 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Can feel isolated. 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.
11 upvotes
Bobby J.
I'm a data analyst and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
9 upvotes
urban_jayden56
Bought a house here in 2020 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
6 upvotes
Sophia M.
not my experience at all
5 upvotes
Luna
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
3 upvotes
nycdude2021
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to San Francisco it's solid.