All Countries
John Morris
living
What I wish I knew before living in Somerville
Been meaning to ask this. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Cheers.
12 upvotes
9 Replies
Sarah M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Michelle A.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. No regrets on my end..
33 upvotes
Jacob
I've lived in Midtown for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
- The school system scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Definitely worth checking out..
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Strong sense of community
- The school system scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Aurora Robinson
accurate
19 upvotes
Nolan Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 43, moved here 14 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Oak Park and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Miami, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
Background: I'm a writer, 43, moved here 14 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Oak Park and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The cost of living situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Miami, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
18 upvotes
Hailey P.
wish I knew this sooner
12 upvotes
Ethan King
good to know, thanks
11 upvotes
Elijah Williams
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem underrated.
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
I've been here 13 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is improving.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Uptown side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
10 upvotes
sdpapa2022
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Indian places. it was the best decision I ever made.
1 upvotes