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Lillian Gutierrez
housing
First time home buyer in Pikesville
Hey folks, Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Anyone in a similar situation?
22 upvotes
2 Replies
miami_maya
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 25, moved here 3 years ago from Boston. I've lived in West and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Boston, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K 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.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 25, moved here 3 years ago from Boston. I've lived in West and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Boston, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K 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
Anna C.
couldn't agree more
8 upvotes