Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Median household income is $102,231, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Anyone in a similar situation?
1 upvotes
4 Replies
Sophie Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 50, moved here 13 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Pine Hills and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. hit or miss 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 Phoenix, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K 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.
26 upvotes
Jackson H.
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Korean places. it was the best decision I ever made.
15 upvotes
Maya Reed
Public transit is solid here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
14 upvotes
Valentina Martinez
I'm a contractor and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is improving and there's always something going on.