Hi all, I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
15 upvotes
8 Replies
Kevin W.
yeah no that's not right
39 upvotes
chicagoheart2021
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 5 years ago. it was the best decision I ever made. Still getting used to weather but Good luck with whatever you decide..
33 upvotes
Aubrey Bennett
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 35, moved here 7 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in South and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The housing market situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for retirees. better than expected 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 Tampa, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
30 upvotes
Rylee Williams
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The pet-friendliness is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
lake_ethan9
Can confirm, been here 8 years.
20 upvotes
Logan Foster
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
13 upvotes
Sofia A.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 46, moved here 8 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Downtown and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for families. solid vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Atlanta, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$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.
10 upvotes
Dylan
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..