Been meaning to ask this. Poverty rate is 6.4%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
1 upvotes
5 Replies
Stella Cooper
preach
33 upvotes
Audrey Hall
As someone who grew up here, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. A lot has changed in the past few years though. safety used to be much reasonable but now it's improving.
27 upvotes
Wyatt Baker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 43, moved here 12 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in Greenfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Four distinct seasons
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Not a lot of cultural diversity
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Charlotte, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
12 upvotes
Henry
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor recreation is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
11 upvotes
Liam Watson
As someone who grew up here, it's exactly what I was looking for. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much pricey but now it's average.
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