OK so I'm single, late 40s, and Average temperature is around 48--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $2,568/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 5.5%, which is about average. Poverty rate is 6.8%, which is pretty low. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Am I overthinking this? TIA! I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up.
12 upvotes
14 Replies
Nathan Rivera
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 44, moved here 6 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Downtown and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The traffic situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Raleigh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K 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.
40 upvotes
Victoria W.
Totally agree!
38 upvotes
Olivia Nelson
haha yep pretty much
38 upvotes
Roman C.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
37 upvotes
Adrian Ward
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 10 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Westside side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Kennedy Roberts
I've lived in Uptown for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by outdoor recreation. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Close to major attractions
- The traffic scene is solid
The downsides:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Road conditions need improvement
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Definitely worth checking out..
30 upvotes
Jose
exactly what I was thinking
30 upvotes
Adam Hall
Moved here from Phoenix about 10 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to traffic but Good luck with whatever you decide..
17 upvotes
Grace Young
preach
16 upvotes
Natalie Rodriguez
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
15 upvotes
Aaron Torres
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
13 upvotes
Nora Castillo
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 11 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
10 upvotes
Claire Carter
Totally agree!
1 upvotes
Arianna Campbell
Came here for work and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The walkability is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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