Average temperature is around 46--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $786 for rent here. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Has anyone dealt with this? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
1 upvotes
7 Replies
philly_arianna
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much pricey but now it's underrated.
35 upvotes
Katherine Reyes
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Meadowbrook area are decent. Kids love it here.
28 upvotes
Jackson Nelson
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are wild. You get used to it after the first year.
28 upvotes
James Foster
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Eastside. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Bella
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Minneapolis about 8 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes
Thomas Jackson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 13 years. Moved from Phoenix for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are challenging. 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. Winters are long and cold. Not very walkable outside downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Isabelle Ramirez
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Greenfield area are underrated. Kids love it here.