Hey everyone, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. Rent is about $1,032/month for a decent place. Crime rate is something to consider -Palestine sits at 548.1 per 100K. Median household income is $46,228, which feels on the lower side for the area. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
4 upvotes
12 Replies
austin_kai
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Korean places. I have mixed feelings honestly.
30 upvotes
Ellie Ramirez
preach
29 upvotes
Dylan Nguyen
Totally agree!
28 upvotes
Elena A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 52, moved here 4 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Downtown and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The community vibe situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Seattle, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
24 upvotes
charlottesoul2026
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. public transit used to be much reasonable but now it's surprisingly good.
22 upvotes
Charles H.
noted, appreciate it
19 upvotes
Colton Robinson
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Oak Park area are challenging. Kids love it here.
13 upvotes
Connor J.
+1
12 upvotes
Gianna Jones
couldn't agree more
7 upvotes
Alexa Baker
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
4 upvotes
loving_xavier87
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
3 upvotes
Michael Ramirez
I'm a real estate agent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is hit or miss and there's always something going on.
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