OK so We have two kids and Median household income is $29,507, which feels on the lower side for the area. With a population of 5,158, Smithville is a small town. The city has invested a lot in new development. Let me know your thoughts. TIA! The city has invested a lot in new development. The city has invested a lot in new development. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
14 upvotes
10 Replies
Adrian Cox
noted, appreciate it
40 upvotes
Elijah J.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 7 years. Moved from Tampa for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Chain restaurants dominate. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Eleanor C.
+1
33 upvotes
Alexander T.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to San Diego it's decent.
32 upvotes
Kelly M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from LA about 1 years ago. The main reasons were work and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are reasonable, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Happy to answer more specific questions..
31 upvotes
Isabelle Diaz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 51, moved here 14 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Lots of new development happening
2. Diverse dining options
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The traffic situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 Baltimore, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
21 upvotes
Ella Bailey
hard disagree but ok
12 upvotes
Brooks Bennett
Moved here last year, no regrets.
11 upvotes
Lucy Morris
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The walkability is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
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