First post here. I'm a college student here and With a population of 12,060, New Baltimore is a small town. Poverty rate is 2.6%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Should I be concerned? Thanks in advance!
12 upvotes
9 Replies
Victoria Howard
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it was the best decision I ever made.
35 upvotes
Michael C.
I've lived in West for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- The walkability scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Kenneth R.
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much reasonable but now it's average.
26 upvotes
Amanda G.
as a local I can confirm
24 upvotes
Joseph Taylor
Bought a house here in 2024 and it exceeded my expectations. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
11 upvotes
Lucy N.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 49, moved here 1 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Oak Park and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Growing food and restaurant scene
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for young professionals. average vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Chicago, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K 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.
8 upvotes
Olivia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 29, moved here 14 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Springfield and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The nightlife situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. tough vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Boston, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K 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.
5 upvotes
Victoria Lee
seconding this
3 upvotes
Gabriel R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
All Countries
