Hi all, Poverty rate is 8.4%, which is pretty low. Does this match your experience? Thanks! It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
6 upvotes
9 Replies
Eleanor M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 44, moved here 9 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in The Heights and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally challenging - 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 job market situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for couples. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Nashville, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$130K 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.
39 upvotes
Jacob
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Greenfield area are excellent. Kids love it here.
35 upvotes
Matthew Moore
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely solid and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Springfield) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
32 upvotes
Abigail W.
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in Lakewood area are underrated. Kids love it here.
29 upvotes
violet_runner
I'm a social worker and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
18 upvotes
Adam Jackson
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
15 upvotes
Eliana F.
+1
10 upvotes
Adam
As someone who grew up here, I genuinely enjoy living here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. community vibe used to be much developing but now it's improving.
7 upvotes
Katherine R.
I've lived in Cedar Grove for about 3 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 Baltimore, I was surprised by food scene. 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 cultural scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for families. It's not for everyone but it works for us..