Considering Spring Valley Lake vs Portland -help me decide
Hey, I'm single, late 40s, and With a population of 10,098, Spring Valley Lake is a small town. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. What neighborhoods would you suggest? Thanks in advance! Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
6 upvotes
11 Replies
Scarlett
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Miami about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Can feel isolated
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it excellent compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is excellent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Oliver Stewart
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 11 years. Moved from Atlanta for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is average - we have ski resorts within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are average. 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited high-paying job options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
35 upvotes
Julia A.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Compared to Austin it's underrated.
33 upvotes
Melanie J.
Weather-wise, the summers are decent and winters are affordable. You get used to it after the first year.
31 upvotes
Carson C.
seconding this
26 upvotes
Waylon Lee
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
25 upvotes
Hunter Hall
big facts right here
24 upvotes
Henry Campbell
hard disagree but ok
18 upvotes
Adeline Young
spot on
18 upvotes
Adrian Jones
exactly what I was thinking
18 upvotes
Parker Diaz
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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