Hi all, I grew up here but left for a while. It's a a small town city with about 1,686 people. With a population of 1,686, Santa Nella is a small town. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
10 upvotes
14 Replies
Gabriella Chavez
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
37 upvotes
Aaron Campbell
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
27 upvotes
Jace Davis
This.
27 upvotes
Leonardo G.
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
25 upvotes
Evelyn
I've lived in East for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- The cost of living scene is solid
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Clara Foster
I'm a HR manager and I've found there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The community is average and there's always something going on.
17 upvotes
Liam Moore
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 25, moved here 9 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Riverside and Maple Ridge, 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. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The healthcare situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for remote workers. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
13 upvotes
Ryan W.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The walkability is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
7 upvotes
Joshua Morris
I work in education here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is excellent. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
6 upvotes
Bennett M.
nah I disagree
5 upvotes
Hunter Green
big facts right here
4 upvotes
Aaliyah M.
accurate
2 upvotes
Kai Wood
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
2 upvotes
Luke C.
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.