Hey, I relocated for work and Poverty rate is 15.9%, which is higher than I expected. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Has anyone dealt with this?
14 upvotes
15 Replies
Willie L.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Sunset for 13 years. Moved from Baltimore for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
legal is strong here. hospitality 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have mountains 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 improving. 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. Property taxes are high. Can feel isolated. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 8/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
Violet
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 46, moved here 15 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Pine Hills and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The community vibe situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
38 upvotes
Aaron Lee
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community vibe is excellent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
38 upvotes
Hailey D.
I work in real estate here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is solid. No regrets on my end..
38 upvotes
Valentina Brown
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from San Diego about 15 years ago. The main reasons were work and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
35 upvotes
silas_life
nah I disagree
34 upvotes
chill_daniel43
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 13 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Meadowbrook side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
34 upvotes
Daniel P.
this is the way
30 upvotes
everett_lover
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
28 upvotes
Vivian Allen
Totally agree!
27 upvotes
born_emily79
I'm a pharmacist and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
20 upvotes
miami_angel
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
14 upvotes
Emilia Adams
bump
10 upvotes
Skylar Cruz
underrated comment
8 upvotes
Emma C.
We moved here with our family and the quality of life is solid. Schools in Highland area are average. Kids love it here.
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