The unemployment rate is 6.8%, which is concerning. Poverty rate is 12.5%, which is around average. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I wrong here? Thanks in advance! The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to.
17 upvotes
6 Replies
Madelyn Walker
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
38 upvotes
Declan Brown
I've lived in Midtown for about 5 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Four distinct seasons
- The community vibe scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Ian C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 50, moved here 1 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for retirees. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K 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.
30 upvotes
Zoe Hall
not my experience at all
23 upvotes
Mackenzie H.
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much affordable but now it's challenging.
7 upvotes
Xavier Rodriguez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 10 years. Moved from Phoenix for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
engineering is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Sunset schools are hit or miss. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Far from beaches/mountains. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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