The unemployment rate is 4.5%, which is about average. Homes are going for about $449,600 on average. Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. Worth the trade-offs? The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
9 upvotes
4 Replies
Kai P.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Baltimore about 5 years ago. The main reasons were work and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is solid.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
30 upvotes
Lily Rogers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 51, moved here 15 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Sunset and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The walkability situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for couples. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Nashville, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
23 upvotes
Scarlett Mitchell
I've lived in Fairview for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Decent public transit for the size
- The community vibe scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
Daniel Rogers
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Cedar Grove. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in marketing. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Thai.
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