Hi all, I've been here for 12 years and Median household income is $67,383, which feels about average for the area. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development.
10 upvotes
15 Replies
Ariana Young
Public transit is challenging here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's not perfect but it works for me.
31 upvotes
Adam Jackson
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
28 upvotes
Levi
yeah no that's not right
24 upvotes
nashville_ella
I work in tech here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is better than expected. Good luck with whatever you decide..
23 upvotes
Kai Garcia
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely challenging and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. outdoor recreation is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
19 upvotes
Janice W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 12 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Pine Hills side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
18 upvotes
Zoey G.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
17 upvotes
Everly
underrated comment
17 upvotes
Lucy Thomas
100%
15 upvotes
Serenity Williams
this is the way
14 upvotes
Sofia Hughes
been saying this for years
13 upvotes
Charlotte Roberts
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 41, moved here 1 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Midtown and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited shopping options
3. The public transit situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for families. average vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 Denver, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
9 upvotes
Parker Brooks
Came here for my partner's job and stayed because I genuinely enjoy living here. The food scene is honestly hit or miss and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Lydia James
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
5 upvotes
Aubrey Thomas
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Baltimore about 14 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong job market in several industries
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Would recommend to anyone considering it..