Anyone else feel this way? I'm a remote worker and Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. Median household income is $190,701, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -South Riding sits at 194.2 per 100K. Poverty rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. What are your go-to spots? Thanks in advance! People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
0 upvotes
9 Replies
Ellie Evans
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Pine Hills area are average. Kids love it here.
39 upvotes
Janice S.
preach
38 upvotes
Chloe Turner
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 29, moved here 5 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Downtown and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The nightlife situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for remote workers. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K 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.
31 upvotes
Madelyn Gray
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. job market used to be much manageable but now it's excellent.
27 upvotes
Andrea M.
lol so true
26 upvotes
Roman Reyes
Bought a house here in 2018 and the quality of life is solid. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
26 upvotes
Sadie
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely challenging and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (The Heights) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. walkability is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
13 upvotes
Ava Nelson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Dallas about 11 years ago. The main reasons were family and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
4 upvotes
Axel Collins
Hot take but it's been a really good experience overall. I know a lot of people disagree but after 7 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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