Anyone else feel this way? Just moved here 18 months ago and Crime rate is something to consider -Rohnert Park sits at 605.0 per 100K. Homes are going for about $634,900 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Should I be concerned? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
17 upvotes
6 Replies
Landon Stewart
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely improving and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Westside) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Chicago, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living 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.
40 upvotes
Amelia Jones
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 35, moved here 3 years ago from LA. I've lived in Old Town and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The nightlife situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for singles. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 LA, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
33 upvotes
Kinsley M.
+1
32 upvotes
Sophie Hall
underrated comment
30 upvotes
Ruby Ruiz
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Midtown area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
4 upvotes
Abigail Williams
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from San Diego about 6 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Diverse dining options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Winters are long and cold
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is solid.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Definitely worth checking out..
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