Hi all, What would you do? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
6 upvotes
12 Replies
Grace Patel
100%
38 upvotes
Jacob King
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 1 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Greenfield and Meadowbrook, 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. Affordable housing options
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. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for retirees. solid vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
29 upvotes
Jacob Morgan
+1
28 upvotes
Emilia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 48, moved here 2 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Old Town and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The school system situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for couples. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Seattle, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K 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.
26 upvotes
Sarah Thomas
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's exactly what I was looking for. Compared to Atlanta it's challenging.
23 upvotes
Wyatt Rogers
This.
21 upvotes
Kennedy Roberts
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Charlotte about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is average.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Eva
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
16 upvotes
Caleb Scott
hmm interesting perspective
15 upvotes
dallas_caroline
haha yep pretty much
6 upvotes
Wesley Morris
literally same
2 upvotes
Kayden
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The safety is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..