Hey, We're a young couple and Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Anyone in a similar situation? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
2 upvotes
6 Replies
coastal_melanie93
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 38, moved here 14 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Springfield and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
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. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for young professionals. better than expected 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 Minneapolis, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K 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.
34 upvotes
Kennedy M.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The public transit is better than expected compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
26 upvotes
real_vivian26
nah I disagree
18 upvotes
Maya M.
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say I have mixed feelings honestly. The public transit is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
14 upvotes
Nolan Gonzalez
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Sunset area are solid. Kids love it here.
11 upvotes
Bennett Lopez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 53, moved here 14 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Lakewood and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Affordable housing options
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. Limited public transit options
2. Summers can be brutally hot
3. The healthcare situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Baltimore, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
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