Anyone else feel this way? I work in logistics and It's a a smaller city city with about 99,507 people. The unemployment rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Any advice would be great. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
16 upvotes
12 Replies
lake_leah57
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Theodore Hughes
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is outdoor recreation. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
38 upvotes
Angel Anderson
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is excellent in most areas.
37 upvotes
Matthew L.
Used to live on the Springfield side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
34 upvotes
Samuel Wright
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 14 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's growing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the food scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The West side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
32 upvotes
Nicole C.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in North for 10 years. Moved from Denver for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
education is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is solid - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. North schools are solid. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Far from beaches/mountains. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
cool_xavier46
noted, appreciate it
31 upvotes
Carter Martin
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it exceeded my expectations. The dating scene is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Paisley R.
this is the way
27 upvotes
Elizabeth R.
+1
24 upvotes
Madelyn H.
Used to live on the Greenfield side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
1 upvotes
Sophie Morris
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Springfield) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
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.
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