It's a a smaller city city with about 25,962 people. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
6 upvotes
22 Replies
Weston Morgan
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are excellent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
37 upvotes
Adam F.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 31, moved here 2 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
37 upvotes
Christian H.
I work in education here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is pretty good. Definitely worth checking out..
32 upvotes
Jace Ortiz
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Atlanta it's surprisingly good.
31 upvotes
Grayson
Public transit is decent here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
30 upvotes
Hazel Cooper
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if walkability matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
29 upvotes
denvernative2023
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
28 upvotes
Philip R.
exactly what I was thinking
27 upvotes
Everly D.
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
26 upvotes
Piper King
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
25 upvotes
Jeremiah C.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Midtown. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like Indian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
urban_eli26
100%
24 upvotes
Zoe
I've lived in East for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Affordable housing options
- The dating scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
21 upvotes
Naomi Lee
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Happy to answer more specific questions..
16 upvotes
Evelyn W.
literally same
16 upvotes
Jameson Nguyen
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Allison King
following this thread
14 upvotes
Rachel L.
accurate
12 upvotes
Landon Gutierrez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from LA about 8 years ago. The main reasons were school and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is better than expected.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Peyton Bennett
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely solid and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Westside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Dating scene is rough.
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.
10 upvotes
Megan R.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want weather, then yeah this place is great. But if outdoor recreation matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
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