Hi all, Homes are going for about $233,700 on average. The median home value here is around $233,700, which is actually reasonable. With a population of 43,559, Pittsfield is a smaller city. Poverty rate is 9.7%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. What do you all think? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
24 upvotes
12 Replies
Carolyn E.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from San Diego about 2 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Good luck with whatever you decide..
39 upvotes
Christian Gonzalez
I work in construction here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is tough. Definitely worth checking out..
39 upvotes
Julian Green
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. nightlife used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
36 upvotes
Robert Anderson
hard disagree but ok
36 upvotes
Wyatt White
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Baltimore about 4 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are pricey, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Hope this helps!.
33 upvotes
Maverick Morales
Moved here from Miami about 14 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to dating scene but Feel free to reach out with questions..
28 upvotes
Emily M.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Dallas it's excellent.
28 upvotes
stl_lillian
I've lived in Sunset for about 9 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Decent public transit for the size
- The healthcare scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. No regrets on my end..
15 upvotes
Skylar White
it depends on the neighborhood
10 upvotes
Scarlett A.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Boston about 11 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is excellent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
Weston Reyes
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 13 years. Moved from LA for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are pretty good. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Can feel isolated. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
Cooper Morgan
As someone who grew up here, I'm still on the fence after all this time. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much stable but now it's better than expected.