First post here. We have two kids and Crime rate is something to consider -Southfield sits at 272.7 per 100K. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I overthinking this? The suburbs are where most families end up.
24 upvotes
18 Replies
Audrey M.
seconding this
40 upvotes
Mackenzie Cook
accurate
36 upvotes
Hunter Gutierrez
Came here for cost of living and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The pet-friendliness is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
36 upvotes
Dylan R.
this is the way
32 upvotes
Landon M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Tampa about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Active local events and festivals
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are affordable, gas is underrated.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
29 upvotes
Axel Lewis
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to Tampa it's pretty good.
28 upvotes
Lydia Richardson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
24 upvotes
Daniel Wood
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 25, moved here 1 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Eastside and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The cost of living situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
21 upvotes
Adrian Torres
thanks for sharing
20 upvotes
Santiago Lopez
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Houston it's hit or miss.
20 upvotes
Nathan R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 8 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Pine Hills. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Hope this helps!.
19 upvotes
Melanie
bump
19 upvotes
Josiah Castillo
I'm a sales manager and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
18 upvotes
Dominic Long
couldn't agree more
18 upvotes
Owen Torres
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.