Hey folks, I'm a 29-year-old accountant and Median household income is $65,395, which feels about average for the area. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. Is this normal for Puget Island? It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
11 upvotes
6 Replies
Evan Gonzalez
facts
33 upvotes
loving_jeremiah78
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Highland area are excellent. Kids love it here.
28 upvotes
Jacqueline C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Raleigh about 14 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Decent public transit for the size
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is average.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
26 upvotes
Alexander Howard
yep
25 upvotes
Robert H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 30, moved here 3 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Oak Park and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The housing market situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for couples. pretty good 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 Tampa, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
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