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Michael Thompson housing

Cheapest neighborhoods in San Marcos?

Been living here since 2009. The median home value here is around $792,400, which is pretty steep. Household incomes average around $105,286 in San Marcos. With a population of 94,078, San Marcos is a smaller city. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
21 upvotes

8 Replies

levi_mind
My experience has been mostly positive. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
Eliana Bailey
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Happy to answer more specific questions..
11 upvotes
Jameson R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Cedar Grove for 10 years. Moved from Portland for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.

**Employment:**
tech is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Cedar Grove schools are pretty good. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited entertainment options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Luca Mendoza
We moved here with our family and it's exactly what I was looking for. Schools in Greenfield area are solid. Kids love it here.
9 upvotes
Alexa
Hot take but it was the best decision I ever made. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
8 upvotes
Thomas
underrated comment
3 upvotes
Ellie Cook
literally same
2 upvotes
david_native
Used to live on the Midtown side, now on the Westside side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
2 upvotes
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