Hey folks, Poverty rate is 11.0%, which is around average. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
50 upvotes
10 Replies
Olivia S.
as a local I can confirm
37 upvotes
Matthew
big facts right here
32 upvotes
julian_fan
This.
31 upvotes
oaklandlife2024
facts
31 upvotes
Isaac Mitchell
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. traffic used to be much affordable but now it's hit or miss.
27 upvotes
orlandorunner2022
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
23 upvotes
Skylar Perez
lol so true
22 upvotes
Connor Baker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 44, moved here 5 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Lakewood and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Limited shopping options
3. The cost of living situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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
Adrian W.
Came here for weather and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The weather is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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