Hi all, We're a young couple and Average temperature is around 68°F, so the weather is moderate. The median home value here is around $440,600, which is pretty steep. The unemployment rate is 2.9%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $440,600 on average. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Does this match your experience? Looking forward to hearing from you all. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
6 upvotes
19 Replies
Miles Edwards
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Sunset area are underrated. Kids love it here.
38 upvotes
Kennedy H.
I'm a sales manager and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Robert Reed
good to know, thanks
34 upvotes
Ethan Green
underrated comment
34 upvotes
Aaliyah Sanchez
Bought a house here in 2022 and I love the pace of life here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
29 upvotes
Benjamin C.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 3 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Midtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
19 upvotes
Santiago Rivera
I've lived in Westside for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The job market scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
19 upvotes
Abigail Ross
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Miami about 3 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is decent.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
Wesley S.
this is the way
15 upvotes
Mia Torres
as a local I can confirm
15 upvotes
Wesley W.
I'm a social worker and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
14 upvotes
Hailey Harris
been saying this for years
13 upvotes
Cynthia T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 6 years. Moved from Phoenix for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is improving - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. East schools are improving. 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. Nightlife is limited. Not very walkable outside downtown. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
boston_owen
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely tough and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (Sunset) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Dating scene is rough.
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.
9 upvotes
Madeline F.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Riverside. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in government. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Thai.
No regrets on my end..
8 upvotes
tulsaliving2026
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. dating scene used to be much stable but now it's decent.
7 upvotes
Marilyn R.
it depends on the neighborhood
6 upvotes
Jacob A.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
5 upvotes
Charlotte Richardson
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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