Hey everyone, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 47--F, so expect cold winters. The median home value here is around $292,200, which seems about average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. What are your go-to spots? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up.
15 upvotes
10 Replies
Ethan
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Active local events and festivals
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Dating scene is rough
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is improving.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
36 upvotes
Ezra C.
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
36 upvotes
Reagan A.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 3 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. engineering 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:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are underrated. 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. Limited public transit options. Road conditions need improvement. And dating scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 8/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Brielle M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 27, moved here 2 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Uptown and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Diverse dining options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Uptown: Great for families. surprisingly good 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $60K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
22 upvotes
Mason
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 10 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
19 upvotes
Adam Green
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The healthcare is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
19 upvotes
Ellie Morris
good to know, thanks
18 upvotes
Bruce J.
Used to live on the North side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
18 upvotes
Ryan J.
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The traffic is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
7 upvotes
Joshua R.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are stable. You get used to it after the first year.
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