Hey folks, I've been here for 11 years and Crime rate is something to consider -Smithfield sits at 551.2 per 100K. Median household income is $37,827, which feels on the lower side for the area. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. TIA! It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
14 upvotes
13 Replies
Jack Anderson
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Oak Park area are tough. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Maverick
Totally agree!
33 upvotes
David K.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want community vibe, then yeah this place is great. But if walkability matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
32 upvotes
Mason
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to New York it's hit or miss.
32 upvotes
Alexa Taylor
underrated comment
32 upvotes
Scarlett Baker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 30, moved here 10 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Lakewood and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Limited public transit options
3. The safety situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for singles. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 Austin, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
31 upvotes
Aiden James
Totally agree!
27 upvotes
Emily Johnson
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
24 upvotes
Noah Miller
I've lived in Downtown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The dating scene scene is excellent
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
18 upvotes
Hannah S.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it was the best decision I ever made. Internet is underrated in most areas.
8 upvotes
Waylon
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Charlotte about 5 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are developing, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Feel free to reach out with questions..
8 upvotes
Ezra A.
Moved here last year, no regrets.
2 upvotes
Adrian Rogers
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the East side. Completely different vibe. it's been a really good experience overall.
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