Alright, I'm a remote worker and The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
9 upvotes
13 Replies
Carol O.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Tampa about 14 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are established, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Feel free to reach out with questions..
40 upvotes
Isabella A.
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Old Town area are improving. Kids love it here.
38 upvotes
Barbara G.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are challenging, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
37 upvotes
Henry Campbell
been saying this for years
37 upvotes
Rylee Jackson
exactly what I was thinking
33 upvotes
Emma Morris
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 8 years. Moved from Boston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are pretty good. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Far from beaches/mountains. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Nova C.
I've lived in West for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
- The traffic scene is average
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for remote workers. Definitely worth checking out..
26 upvotes
Sofia Brown
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
22 upvotes
Luke Ramirez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Fairview. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Christian Morales
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
18 upvotes
Scarlett M.
not my experience at all
13 upvotes
Emily Roberts
bump
4 upvotes
Liam Foster
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 37, moved here 15 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Downtown and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good airport with direct flights
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The public transit situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K 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.
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