Longtime lurker here, I'm a teacher here and Poverty rate is 8.9%, which is pretty low. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Should I be concerned? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
7 upvotes
11 Replies
Alexa
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
40 upvotes
Paisley
I work in legal here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is underrated. Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Mateo Campbell
Saving this thread
28 upvotes
Elijah Phillips
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The school system is genuinely challenging and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Meadowbrook) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
26 upvotes
orlandorunner2022
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The safety is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
24 upvotes
Alexa Baker
same here
15 upvotes
Reagan Alvarez
thanks for sharing
8 upvotes
Maverick A.
Moved here from Raleigh about 13 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to healthcare but Hope this helps!.
7 upvotes
Isabella W.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The outdoor recreation is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
7 upvotes
Nora Morgan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 46, moved here 8 years ago from Charlotte. I've lived in East and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Charlotte, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
6 upvotes
Jordan Wood
Moved here from Phoenix about 8 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Happy to answer more specific questions..
All Countries
