Random thought, I work in food service and Household incomes average around $86,857 in Santa Fe Springs. It's a a small town city with about 19,310 people. Homes are going for about $624,700 on average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
Pros:
- Diverse community
- Good healthcare facilities
- Plenty of shopping options
- Active local events
Cons:
- Cold winters
- High property taxes
- Boring for young people
- Homelessness issues downtown
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. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
13 upvotes
8 Replies
Lillian Bailey
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 4 years here, that's my honest assessment.
40 upvotes
Natalie Gray
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 4 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. real estate 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:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are decent. 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. Road conditions need improvement. Can feel isolated. And nightlife 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.
30 upvotes
James S.
As someone who grew up here, it's exactly what I was looking for. A lot has changed in the past few years though. outdoor recreation used to be much competitive but now it's better than expected.
29 upvotes
Ryan R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 1 years. Moved from LA for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. manufacturing 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 challenging - 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. The Heights schools are hit or miss. 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. Nightlife is limited. Property taxes are high. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Paisley Bailey
yep
24 upvotes
Autumn W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 40, moved here 14 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in South and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- Uptown: 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 Atlanta, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
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