Longtime lurker here, Median household income is $135,180, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 1.6%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Would love some local perspective. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
8 upvotes
7 Replies
leonardo_runner
as a local I can confirm
40 upvotes
Maverick Lewis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 50, moved here 11 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Pine Hills and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for families. decent vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
34 upvotes
Benjamin
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 14 years. Moved from San Diego for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are underrated. 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. Limited high-paying job options. Far from beaches/mountains. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Avery Davis
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 37, moved here 12 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Springfield and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The traffic situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
28 upvotes
Aubrey
lol so true
22 upvotes
Leonardo Wilson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Denver about 15 years ago. The main reasons were family and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good healthcare facilities
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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