Random thought, Crime rate is something to consider -North Plainfield sits at 218.9 per 100K. Homes are going for about $350,700 on average. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. What are your go-to spots?
7 upvotes
5 Replies
Elena Myers
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 2 years. Moved from Portland for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are average. 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. Limited public transit options. Homeless population growing downtown. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
river_amelia17
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Emilia Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 1 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is tough - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are hit or miss. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Property taxes are high. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, 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.
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