Anyone else feel this way? Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. It's a a small town city with about 1,213 people. Poverty rate is 3.8%, which is pretty low. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Worth the trade-offs? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
12 upvotes
11 Replies
Brooklyn Campbell
I'm a chef and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
32 upvotes
Angel F.
same here
28 upvotes
Leonardo T.
honestly same experience here
27 upvotes
Everett Patel
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Atlanta and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Meadowbrook. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in real estate. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Italian.
Hope this helps!.
26 upvotes
Aurora Robinson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
22 upvotes
Leo C.
following this thread
20 upvotes
Nathan Ramirez
Bought a house here in 2023 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone about the same since then.
18 upvotes
Ethan F.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The school system is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
18 upvotes
Riley W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 42, moved here 14 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Uptown and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Tampa, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K 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.
16 upvotes
Greyson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 10 years. Moved from Boston for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are pretty good. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Chain restaurants dominate. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
3 upvotes
Willow Thomas
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in West. It's hit or miss for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in education. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
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