So, Crime rate is something to consider -Olive Branch sits at 229.6 per 100K. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What would you do? Thanks in advance!
29 upvotes
7 Replies
Kayden C.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Midtown. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
40 upvotes
Ella Lee
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 28, moved here 13 years ago from New York. I've lived in Old Town and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The cost of living situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
36 upvotes
Scarlett Perez
My experience has been mostly positive. I have mixed feelings honestly. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
32 upvotes
Vivian Thomas
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Oak Park. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in engineering. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 16 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
Natalie Cook
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
28 upvotes
serenity_lover
I've lived in Eastside for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- The traffic scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..