First post here. I've been here for 1 years and You can expect to pay around $1,874 for rent here. Rent is about $1,874/month for a decent place. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
1 upvotes
3 Replies
Sara K.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 39, moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Lakewood and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The walkability situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for families. improving vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $80K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
40 upvotes
Leo Peterson
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I love the pace of life here.