I'm a remote worker and Median household income is $53,771, which feels on the lower side for the area. Household incomes average around $53,771 in New Haven. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Any advice would be great. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
44 upvotes
8 Replies
Lucas Torres
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Chicago about 11 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Diverse dining options
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are established, gas is underrated.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
31 upvotes
Joseph Lewis
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Arianna Richardson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Highland. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Mexican.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Jacob Price
couldn't agree more
26 upvotes
Eugene E.
interesting, hadn't considered that
25 upvotes
Hailey
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 11 years. Moved from Austin for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is average - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Sunset schools are solid. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Not very walkable outside downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Emilia Patel
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is community vibe. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
18 upvotes
Noah Ross
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 38, moved here 3 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Uptown and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The community vibe situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Miami, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.