Random thought, The unemployment rate is 3.8%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,593/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Does this match your experience? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
24 upvotes
10 Replies
Greyson Allen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 28, moved here 2 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Fairview and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Property taxes are high
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. excellent 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 surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
37 upvotes
Easton Hill
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Austin about 9 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are competitive, gas is solid.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
Nicholas Ortiz
Can confirm, been here 1 years.
28 upvotes
Isla Ruiz
wish I knew this sooner
25 upvotes
matthew_lover
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 13 years. Moved from Houston for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Homeless population growing downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Matthew Lewis
big facts right here
16 upvotes
Ariana Cook
haha yep pretty much
15 upvotes
seattlepapa2025
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 7 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
15 upvotes
Levi Alvarez
I've lived in Springfield for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Portland, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- The healthcare scene is tough
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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