Random thought, Household incomes average around $107,544 in Shenandoah. With a population of 18,259, Shenandoah is a small town. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Would love some local perspective. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
13 upvotes
12 Replies
Janice R.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's been a really good experience overall. Internet is improving in most areas.
39 upvotes
urban_abigail11
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to San Diego it's pretty good.
36 upvotes
Leah G.
hard disagree but ok
32 upvotes
columbusrider2024
haha yep pretty much
29 upvotes
George W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 36, moved here 13 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Sunset and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The cost of living situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Portland, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
27 upvotes
Ava Myers
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Tampa about 13 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are manageable, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
27 upvotes
Harper Smith
Public transit is improving here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
22 upvotes
Aurora Kelly
this is the way
20 upvotes
Willow Watson
I'm a accountant and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
19 upvotes
Genesis Hill
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
14 upvotes
Douglas M.
yeah no that's not right
9 upvotes
Waylon H.
Weather-wise, the summers are improving and winters are established. You get used to it after the first year.
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