Anyone else feel this way? I've been here for 20 years and Median household income is $82,778, which feels pretty solid for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
3 upvotes
10 Replies
Allison Torres
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Seattle about 2 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong job market in several industries
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is better than expected.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Happy to answer more specific questions..
35 upvotes
Dominic Baker
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 2 years. Moved from Nashville for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. engineering 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 average - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are underrated. 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. Dating scene is rough. Homeless population growing downtown. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Alexa M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 9 years. Moved from Houston for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is underrated - 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. Fairview schools are excellent. 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. Property taxes are high. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
25 upvotes
Jack W.
same here
24 upvotes
Avery M.
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The school system is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
18 upvotes
Amelia Garcia
yeah no that's not right
13 upvotes
Easton
Moved here from Portland about 11 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to walkability but Hope this helps!.
11 upvotes
Hannah
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely better than expected and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Old Town) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
9 upvotes
Avery Kim
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Pittsburgh it's solid.
8 upvotes
Reagan Thomas
Used to live on the Meadowbrook side, now on the Old Town side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
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