Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and Average temperature is around 73--F, so it's warm year-round. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
6 upvotes
14 Replies
Ruby
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Declan Castillo
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much growing but now it's decent.
34 upvotes
Delilah
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Mia Mitchell
This.
26 upvotes
Melanie A.
underrated comment
26 upvotes
Alexander Nguyen
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Madelyn Cox
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Miami about 8 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are wild, gas is improving.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. Happy to answer more specific questions..
22 upvotes
Santiago James
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Raleigh about 12 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are developing, gas is improving.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Good luck with whatever you decide..
21 upvotes
sadie_heart
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Pine Hills area are challenging. Kids love it here.
16 upvotes
Abigail M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 45, moved here 14 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Sunset and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Property taxes are high
3. The outdoor recreation situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for families. excellent 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 Denver, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
15 upvotes
Andrew Kim
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Seattle about 6 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good schools in most areas
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are competitive, gas is average.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. No regrets on my end..
12 upvotes
Jayden
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
11 upvotes
Brooklyn Lopez
I'm a electrician and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
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