Anyone else feel this way? I work in retail and The unemployment rate is 2.7%, which is pretty low. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What are your go-to spots? The food scene here is surprisingly good.
1 upvotes
10 Replies
Carter Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 47, moved here 7 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in East and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. tough vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Dallas, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
32 upvotes
chill_colton4
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Eastside area are solid. Kids love it here.
30 upvotes
Nevaeh Ruiz
I've lived in East for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Dallas, 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
- Good internet infrastructure
- The safety scene is tough
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
Wesley L.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 14 years ago. The main reasons were weather and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is excellent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Naomi Morales
facts
23 upvotes
Silas Lewis
Totally agree!
23 upvotes
Carter P.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 9 years. Moved from New York for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
government is strong here. hospitality 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:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have hiking trails 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. Winters are long and cold. Can feel isolated. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
20 upvotes
Sebastian Nguyen
big facts right here
16 upvotes
Ezra Jimenez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Miami it's surprisingly good.
8 upvotes
Jack J.
I work in construction here and it's not perfect but it works for me. The job market for my field is tough. Would recommend to anyone considering it..