Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm single, late 40s, and Median household income is $100,534, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 1.4%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Would love some local perspective.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
Jace Stewart
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 37, moved here 10 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Greenfield and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Four distinct seasons
2. Close to major attractions
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The dating scene situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Boston, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
38 upvotes
Sofia
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Springfield side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
35 upvotes
Aiden Clark
facts
34 upvotes
Alice Brown
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from Houston about 9 years ago. The main reasons were work and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is decent.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Hope this helps!.
32 upvotes
Aubrey Martin
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 3 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The North side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
29 upvotes
Isabella Green
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it was the best decision I ever made.
29 upvotes
Thomas Young
big facts right here
10 upvotes
Samuel Garcia
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 36, moved here 4 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Old Town and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Miami, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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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