Been meaning to ask this. The median home value here is around $118,200, which is actually reasonable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Does this match your experience? There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
22 upvotes
6 Replies
Weston Long
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Phoenix about 10 years ago. The main reasons were work and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
Logan Carter
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from San Diego about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
24 upvotes
Benjamin Ramos
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 51, moved here 7 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Lakewood and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The healthcare situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Baltimore, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K 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.
9 upvotes
Charlotte C.
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
7 upvotes
Paisley Martinez
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Thai places. the quality of life is solid.
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