Hello, Median household income is $90,602, which feels pretty solid for the area. With a population of 14,033, Smithfield is a small town. It's a a small town city with about 14,033 people. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Is this normal for Smithfield? The city has invested a lot in new development. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. 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.
13 upvotes
7 Replies
Emma Ortiz
following this thread
34 upvotes
Charlotte Murphy
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 43, moved here 5 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Oak Park and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K 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.
32 upvotes
Adeline Ramirez
+1
29 upvotes
Logan Cooper
100%
17 upvotes
Christian Hernandez
I've lived in East for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Houston, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Four distinct seasons
- The traffic scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
6 upvotes
Gabriel
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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