We're a young couple and Crime rate is something to consider -Rutherford sits at 65.1 per 100K. Household incomes average around $136,069 in Rutherford. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Worth the trade-offs? The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
4 upvotes
12 Replies
Robert Ramirez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Phoenix about 12 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are reasonable, gas is average.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Good luck with whatever you decide..
32 upvotes
Ezra Diaz
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Midtown for 7 years. Moved from Tampa for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is tough - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Midtown schools are tough. 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. Limited public transit options. Chain restaurants dominate. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Julia Stewart
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Boston about 2 years ago. The main reasons were family and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are developing, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Luca Wood
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Vietnamese places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
25 upvotes
Kennedy Hall
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Indian places. it exceeded my expectations.
24 upvotes
Bennett G.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
20 upvotes
Lawrence B.
I work in government here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is pretty good. No regrets on my end..
19 upvotes
Eli F.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's improved dramatically in recent years. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
14 upvotes
Eric M.
wish I knew this sooner
12 upvotes
David M.
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's been a really good experience overall. The nightlife is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
10 upvotes
Gabriel Perez
Moved here last year, no regrets.
8 upvotes
Leonardo
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 44, moved here 12 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Lakewood and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. decent 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
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