Alright, I'm originally from Boston and Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. With a population of 2,180, South Roxana is a small town. Median household income is $56,364, which feels about average for the area. The median home value here is around $87,200, which is actually reasonable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Let me know your thoughts. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
12 upvotes
11 Replies
Aurora Morgan
great question, following
36 upvotes
Jerry A.
I work in manufacturing here and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The job market for my field is excellent. No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
portlandlocal2024
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from Portland for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are stable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are solid. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Homeless population growing downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Nathan J.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Houston about 5 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Rising rent and home prices
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
22 upvotes
Henry A.
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want community vibe, then yeah this place is great. But if job market matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
15 upvotes
Amelia Adams
I've been living here for 11 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The nightlife is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
14 upvotes
emilia_lover
This.
12 upvotes
kayden_heart
100%
5 upvotes
Richard C.
Moved here from Seattle about 12 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to cultural scene but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
2 upvotes
mountain_kaylee69
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 2 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cost of living is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.