OK so Poverty rate is 4.2%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Pacifica sits at 202.9 per 100K. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
17 upvotes
10 Replies
desert_ezekiel30
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
40 upvotes
Nora M.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely improving and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Old Town) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
35 upvotes
Ryan K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 52, moved here 7 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Uptown and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The traffic situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Dallas, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
32 upvotes
Hunter Robinson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely decent and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Old Town) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
29 upvotes
Sophie Carter
Totally agree!
15 upvotes
Hailey D.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Fairview. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in legal. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally solid. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Amanda R.
Can confirm, been here 4 years.
10 upvotes
Rylee T.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
4 upvotes
Cameron Smith
lol so true
3 upvotes
Stella Lee
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is better than expected in most areas.