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Ian Ramos housing

Rent vs buy in South Whittier -what makes sense?

Random thought, Born and raised here. Crime rate is something to consider -South Whittier sits at 428.9 per 100K. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
17 upvotes

4 Replies

Adam O.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
32 upvotes
Henry Adams
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a chef, 28, moved here 6 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in West and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The public transit situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- West: Great for couples. pretty good 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 Nashville, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.

**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
29 upvotes
Jessica W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a software engineer, 25, moved here 14 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Old Town and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Property taxes are high
3. The public transit situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Phoenix, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$130K here.

**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
19 upvotes
Sofia Cook
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a electrician, 32, moved here 15 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in East and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Can feel isolated
3. The job market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Chicago, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K here.

**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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
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