Hi all, Military spouse here. Homes are going for about $232,100 on average. The unemployment rate is 8.9%, which is concerning. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Thanks! Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
3 upvotes
10 Replies
Aaron M.
I work in finance here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is surprisingly good. Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Jaxon J.
Came here for quality of life and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The housing market is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
39 upvotes
Scarlett G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 48, moved here 6 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The safety situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 San Diego, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
31 upvotes
Joshua T.
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Oak Park side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
22 upvotes
tucsonnative2024
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 2 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into running, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Fairview side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
20 upvotes
Emilia
Moved here last year, no regrets.
20 upvotes
James Flores
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 28, moved here 9 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Riverside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Atlanta, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
14 upvotes
Brenda R.
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
6 upvotes
Keith N.
I've been living here for 12 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The community vibe is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
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