Been meaning to ask this. Poverty rate is 18.5%, which is higher than I expected. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Has anyone dealt with this? Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
24 upvotes
7 Replies
Julian Miller
accurate
38 upvotes
charlotte_robert
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The cost of living is honestly pretty good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
31 upvotes
Eliana Gutierrez
this is the way
30 upvotes
Miles King
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great BBQ places. it was the best decision I ever made.
19 upvotes
Danielle S.
couldn't agree more
10 upvotes
portland_cooper
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to Austin it's challenging.
7 upvotes
benjamin_mind
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 43, moved here 9 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Midtown and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The safety situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. pretty good 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 Minneapolis, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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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