So, We're a young couple and Rent is about $1,457/month for a decent place. Household incomes average around $53,766 in Paterson. Median household income is $53,766, which feels on the lower side for the area. Average temperature is around 55°F, so expect cold winters. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. What neighborhoods would you suggest? It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
8 upvotes
9 Replies
Scarlett C.
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much affordable but now it's improving.
40 upvotes
Hudson Sanders
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
29 upvotes
Axel Edwards
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 1 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
20 upvotes
Aiden A.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Highland area are average. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Betty S.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 52, moved here 15 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Midtown and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Houston, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
16 upvotes
Levi Young
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The cultural scene is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Angel Howard
The food scene here is excellent. Tons of great sushi places. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
5 upvotes
Camila Kim
I'm a writer and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
4 upvotes
Brielle Brooks
Bought a house here in 2024 and it was the best decision I ever made. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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