So, I'm a college student here and Poverty rate is 3.9%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,096/month for a decent place. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
2 upvotes
8 Replies
oaklandgirl2022
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is safety. I genuinely enjoy living here. Worth doing your research before committing.
38 upvotes
Eleanor Kim
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 7 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Hope this helps!.
26 upvotes
liam_living
Moved here last year, no regrets.
24 upvotes
Luke C.
underrated comment
23 upvotes
Claire Hughes
lol so true
15 upvotes
Declan Mitchell
facts
6 upvotes
Liam Gutierrez
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.
3 upvotes
Piper Hall
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.