Curious what people think. I'm originally from Portland and With a population of 8,853, Pleasant Hill is a small town. The median home value here is around $245,400, which is actually reasonable. You can expect to pay around $1,139 for rent here. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Should I be concerned? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
13 upvotes
7 Replies
Grace Ramos
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Chicago about 3 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Lots of new development happening
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is excellent.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Feel free to reach out with questions..
36 upvotes
Claire Diaz
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Seattle it's decent.
33 upvotes
Matthew
Weather-wise, the summers are surprisingly good and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Alexa Chavez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 35, moved here 9 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Uptown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good schools in most areas
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Portland, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
22 upvotes
Hudson Howard
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Denver about 8 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Lots of new development happening
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Nova Campbell
nah I disagree
11 upvotes
Isaiah Watson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to San Diego it's challenging.
All Countries
