We're a young couple and Poverty rate is 4.9%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
14 upvotes
4 Replies
Jack Foster
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The school system is challenging compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Wyatt Rogers
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely challenging and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Springfield) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
28 upvotes
Aurora W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 4 years. Moved from San Diego for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. marketing 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:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are decent. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Chain restaurants dominate. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Liam Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 52, moved here 14 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Springfield and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The public transit situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. pretty good 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 tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$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.
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