So, I grew up here but left for a while. Poverty rate is 10.5%, which is around average. You can expect to pay around $622 for rent here. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
2 upvotes
7 Replies
Stella
I work in hospitality here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is pretty good. Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Mackenzie Lopez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely challenging and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Sunset) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour 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.
33 upvotes
Wesley Myers
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 14 years. Moved from Charlotte for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. legal 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 love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is solid - 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 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. Chain restaurants dominate. Can feel isolated. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Josiah Ortiz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Houston about 14 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
Wesley Ramirez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely solid and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. public transit is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
14 upvotes
Delilah C.
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
9 upvotes
Charlotte G.
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
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