Military spouse here. The unemployment rate is 4.1%, which is about average. Poverty rate is 11.5%, which is around average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Thanks in advance! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
29 upvotes
2 Replies
Kennedy C.
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The nightlife is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
27 upvotes
John Brooks
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 44, moved here 7 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Westside and Uptown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Affordable housing options
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited shopping options
3. The weather situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Westside: Great for singles. average 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 Tampa, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $40K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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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