Anyone else feel this way? I'm a 26-year-old nurse and Homes are going for about $161,400 on average. The median home value here is around $161,400, which is actually reasonable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. Worth the trade-offs?
15 upvotes
10 Replies
Mackenzie Harris
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 12 years. Moved from Charlotte for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are solid. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
atl_luna
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Portland about 11 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is average.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Hope this helps!.
30 upvotes
Pamela W.
I work in consulting here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is better than expected. Happy to answer more specific questions..
25 upvotes
Roman Foster
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Minneapolis about 6 years ago. The main reasons were family and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is challenging.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
19 upvotes
Lydia Castillo
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (North) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
14 upvotes
Alice Sanders
honestly same experience here
13 upvotes
jaxon_life
I've lived in East for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Lots of new development happening
- The school system scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
Keith H.
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
7 upvotes
Paul C.
Bought a house here in 2020 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
7 upvotes
lake_luca50
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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