First post here. I'm retired and Poverty rate is 4.1%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. Anyone in a similar situation? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
16 upvotes
13 Replies
Austin C.
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
33 upvotes
Daniel Hill
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Minneapolis about 12 years ago. The main reasons were weather and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are wild, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
25 upvotes
Weston Wood
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Midtown. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in consulting. If you're in marketing you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Definitely worth checking out..
23 upvotes
Ann M.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is public transit. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
16 upvotes
real_kai26
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from San Francisco and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in East. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
16 upvotes
Declan Lewis
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from San Diego and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Westside. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in manufacturing. If you're in engineering you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Samuel Lee
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I love the pace of life here. Definitely worth checking out..
14 upvotes
Jameson T.
Can confirm, been here 15 years.
10 upvotes
Leo Diaz
Came here for retirement and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The community vibe is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
9 upvotes
Lily Hall
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Portland it's tough.
8 upvotes
Gabriella Hernandez
same here
7 upvotes
Kinsley
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Greenfield. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in construction. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally pretty good. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
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