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Willow Miller
moving
Thinking about relocating to San Marcos from Kansas City
Curious what people think. Anyone in a similar situation? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
19 upvotes
3 Replies
David Jimenez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Houston about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is challenging.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Houston about 14 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are pricey, gas is challenging.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Lily Allen
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 49, moved here 11 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in West and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for retirees. solid 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 San Diego, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K 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.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 49, moved here 11 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in West and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for retirees. solid 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 San Diego, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K 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.
23 upvotes
Serenity S.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from LA about 2 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is excellent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Feel free to reach out with questions..
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from LA about 2 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is excellent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Feel free to reach out with questions..
22 upvotes