Hi all, It's a a smaller city city with about 75,721 people. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $1,091,700 on average. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Worth the trade-offs? Appreciate any input. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
9 upvotes
8 Replies
Rylee Robinson
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is traffic. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
34 upvotes
Megan C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely decent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (North) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
32 upvotes
Lily N.
underrated comment
30 upvotes
born_bennett81
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 1 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Definitely worth checking out..
22 upvotes
Silas Cook
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is walkability. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
Nova Phillips
this is the way
14 upvotes
everett_dude
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Miami about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- Good internet infrastructure
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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