Anyone else feel this way? My family moved here when I was a kid. Household incomes average around $58,972 in Portsmouth. The unemployment rate is 3.8%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $229,400, which is actually reasonable. Homes are going for about $229,400 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. What would you do? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
8 upvotes
7 Replies
ella_mama
I've lived in Westside for about 8 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Phoenix, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
- The pet-friendliness scene is solid
The downsides:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Definitely worth checking out..
40 upvotes
Camila Brown
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely better than expected and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (The Heights) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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
Anna Sanders
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 14 years. Moved from Boston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. finance 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'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is tough - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are underrated. 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. Nightlife is limited. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
28 upvotes
Adam Johnson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Sunset) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
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.
6 upvotes
Ariana Thompson
Moved here last year, no regrets.
5 upvotes
Gary T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 29, moved here 2 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Lakewood and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The safety situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. tough vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Nashville, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$90K 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.
1 upvotes
Autumn C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is challenging in most areas.
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