First post here. I've been here for 20 years and Average temperature is around 61--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 4.5%, which is about average. Homes are going for about $459,800 on average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Am I wrong here? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
6 upvotes
8 Replies
Caleb Lopez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I love the pace of life here. Internet is underrated in most areas.
34 upvotes
Robert Sanders
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much competitive but now it's better than expected.
29 upvotes
Jesse R.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 13 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into running, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
27 upvotes
Weston D.
underrated comment
24 upvotes
Valentina Carter
Came here for family and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The nightlife is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Eva Howard
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 4 years. Moved from Portland for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is tough - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are challenging. 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. Can feel isolated. Dating scene is rough. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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