Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and The median home value here is around $1,466,400, which is pretty steep. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Would love some local perspective.
25 upvotes
8 Replies
Joseph Walker
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Tampa about 1 years ago. The main reasons were weather and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are manageable, gas is average.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
34 upvotes
orlandopapa2022
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 9 years. Moved from LA for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is solid - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are average. 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. Urban sprawl is real. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Reagan M.
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. walkability used to be much wild but now it's surprisingly good.
27 upvotes
Jayden
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Houston about 8 years ago. The main reasons were family and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are manageable, gas is average.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Arianna
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want outdoor recreation, then yeah this place is great. But if dating scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
17 upvotes
Clara White
as a local I can confirm
15 upvotes
Wesley Allen
Moved here from Nashville about 4 years ago. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Still getting used to safety but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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