I'm retired and The median home value here is around $452,600, which is pretty steep. Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Would love some local perspective. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to.
29 upvotes
12 Replies
Brooks R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 12 years. Moved from Austin for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - 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. Westside schools are pretty good. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Josiah Sanchez
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Greenfield area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
39 upvotes
Connor Robinson
it depends on the neighborhood
31 upvotes
Miles Wilson
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. housing market used to be much manageable but now it's challenging.
24 upvotes
Sophie Morris
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from New York about 15 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Sofia Ross
lol so true
13 upvotes
Leah Kim
Came here for weather and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The traffic is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
12 upvotes
Kai Ross
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 8 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Cedar Grove side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
9 upvotes
Gabriel Hall
Used to live on the Pine Hills side, now on the West side. Completely different vibe. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
8 upvotes
David Johnson
exactly what I was thinking
6 upvotes
Madelyn Stewart
I work in manufacturing here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is average. Good luck with whatever you decide..
4 upvotes
Lucas Thomas
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem solid.
I've been here 2 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into hiking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The South side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
All Countries
