I relocated for work and Crime rate is something to consider — Providence sits at 496.2 per 100K. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Am I wrong here? It's changing fast — some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
16 upvotes
18 Replies
Kai Torres
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The walkability is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
38 upvotes
atl_adeline
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the Cedar Grove side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
31 upvotes
Chloe White
underrated comment
30 upvotes
Aurora Parker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 3 years. Moved from Chicago for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have lakes 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 challenging. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Limited entertainment options. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Sebastian Hernandez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
27 upvotes
George P.
nah I disagree
25 upvotes
Victoria G.
this is the way
24 upvotes
Jameson Cook
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 5 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Ariana Torres
Can confirm, been here 10 years.
21 upvotes
Vivian D.
as a local I can confirm
19 upvotes
Weston Gonzalez
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I'm still on the fence after all this time. No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Adrian R.
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Riverside area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Brielle W.
lol so true
16 upvotes
Kai Nguyen
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from San Diego about 1 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
14 upvotes
Aaron Watson
seconding this
8 upvotes
Mason Reyes
I've lived in Greenfield for about 6 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by housing market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good healthcare facilities
- The nightlife scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for singles. Good luck with whatever you decide..
7 upvotes
melanie_walker
facts
2 upvotes
Peyton R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from New York about 2 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is improving.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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