Thinking about relocating to Runnemede from Portland
Anyone else feel this way? I'm single, late 20s, and Homes are going for about $217,500 on average. Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
9 upvotes
12 Replies
Ava Myers
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from San Francisco about 3 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is tough.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Vivian L.
Saving this thread
37 upvotes
Benjamin Watson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Austin about 12 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are stable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Good luck with whatever you decide..
34 upvotes
Nathan M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is dating scene. Other than that, Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Jeremiah Morgan
couldn't agree more
30 upvotes
Vivian Bailey
wish I knew this sooner
20 upvotes
Brielle Kelly
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 55, moved here 15 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in The Heights and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The job market situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
18 upvotes
kennedy_life
100%
10 upvotes
Austin W.
Hot take but it's exactly what I was looking for. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.
9 upvotes
phoenix_nora
Came here for work and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The nightlife is honestly decent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.