Been meaning to ask this. Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $1,699 for rent here. Median household income is $99,475, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The weather takes some getting used to. Has anyone dealt with this? Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
1 upvotes
5 Replies
Adeline Hill
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The traffic is genuinely excellent and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Midtown) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Summers can be brutally hot.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
36 upvotes
Clara Long
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Nashville it's pretty good.
25 upvotes
George K.
Weather-wise, the summers are underrated and winters are competitive. You get used to it after the first year.
23 upvotes
Victoria C.
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
21 upvotes
Jaxon Evans
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 54, moved here 15 years ago from LA. I've lived in Meadowbrook and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Property taxes are high
3. The food scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 LA, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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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