Been meaning to ask this. I'm originally from Austin and The unemployment rate is 5.5%, which is about average. The median home value here is around $136,000, which is actually reasonable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
28 upvotes
14 Replies
Claire C.
couldn't agree more
40 upvotes
desert_willow14
I've been living here for 4 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The nightlife is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Sadie S.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
36 upvotes
Delilah Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 15 years. Moved from San Francisco for school. 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 significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - 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. Meadowbrook schools are solid. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited shopping options. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Savannah
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Chicago about 11 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Good luck with whatever you decide..
31 upvotes
chicagokid2021
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Sunset. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Definitely worth checking out..
26 upvotes
Avery Chavez
I've lived in East for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
- The outdoor recreation scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for singles. No regrets on my end..
24 upvotes
Aiden L.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cultural scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely improving and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Midtown) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Baltimore, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
17 upvotes
Adrian B.
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Westside area are underrated. Kids love it here.
14 upvotes
Leo C.
good to know, thanks
12 upvotes
Victoria
Used to live on the South side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
8 upvotes
cincylife2025
bump
3 upvotes
native_chloe55
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.