OK so I'm a college student here and It's a a smaller city city with about 48,048 people. Poverty rate is 8.0%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Prescott Valley sits at 199.1 per 100K. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. Any help is appreciated. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
26 upvotes
5 Replies
Jackson Murphy
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 54, moved here 4 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The nightlife situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for families. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 Austin, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K 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.
37 upvotes
Eva Brooks
My experience has been mostly positive. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
28 upvotes
Ruth T.
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Lakewood area are improving. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Sofia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 9 years. Moved from LA for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. tech 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:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have rivers 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 solid. 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. Nightlife is limited. Dating scene is rough. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
9 upvotes
Miles Cooper
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
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