Anyone else feel this way? You can expect to pay around $676 for rent here. The unemployment rate is 4.0%, which is pretty low. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What are your go-to spots? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
5 upvotes
11 Replies
Nova Wilson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Austin and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Downtown. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in consulting. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Definitely worth checking out..
39 upvotes
Jonathan W.
following this thread
37 upvotes
Piper Lopez
big facts right here
30 upvotes
tulsaguy2023
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 35, moved here 10 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Springfield and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The school system situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
29 upvotes
Josiah Gutierrez
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is community vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
28 upvotes
Robert Davis
I work in legal here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The job market for my field is average. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
Isaac Allen
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
Ezra James
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 29, moved here 1 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Midtown and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The walkability situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. solid 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 Atlanta, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
13 upvotes
Kennedy Turner
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
6 upvotes
Luca Smith
I've lived in Westside for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Atlanta, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
- The food scene scene is solid
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. No regrets on my end..
2 upvotes
Maverick Baker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value housing market, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely solid and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
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.
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