OK so Crime rate is something to consider -Norco sits at 184.5 per 100K. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What neighborhoods would you suggest? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
1 upvotes
21 Replies
Sebastian Young
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is job market. I love the pace of life here. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Everly
I work in marketing here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. No regrets on my end..
38 upvotes
Ruby J.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Happy to answer more specific questions..
32 upvotes
Nevaeh Cook
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
31 upvotes
Liam Cox
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
30 upvotes
Charles H.
yep
30 upvotes
Jaxon G.
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
29 upvotes
Grayson
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
raised_james26
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The pet-friendliness is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
24 upvotes
Logan Garcia
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great seafood places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
21 upvotes
Harper Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 50, moved here 1 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Springfield and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The cultural scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Raleigh, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K 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.
20 upvotes
Emily Bailey
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 14 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Helen P.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I have mixed feelings honestly. No regrets on my end..
10 upvotes
Sarah P.
noted, appreciate it
9 upvotes
Isaac Gutierrez
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, Hope this helps!.
8 upvotes
Eliana Morris
glad someone said it
7 upvotes
John D.
facts
7 upvotes
Mateo
This.
5 upvotes
Dylan W.
hard disagree but ok
5 upvotes
Gabriel Kelly
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 2 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
4 upvotes
Mateo Robinson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from Charlotte and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Pine Hills. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: challenging. Tons of options if you like Thai.
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