Hello, We're a young couple and Household incomes average around $87,477 in Stanwood. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
9 upvotes
14 Replies
julia_living
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
35 upvotes
Benjamin Watson
I've lived in Old Town for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from Pittsburgh, I was surprised by community vibe. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Four distinct seasons
- The food scene scene is average
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
33 upvotes
Addison Flores
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 10 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is decent - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Winters are long and cold. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Ian H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 1 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
tech is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is average - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park schools are underrated. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Chain restaurants dominate. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Shirley A.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Seattle it's excellent.
28 upvotes
Kayden
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Seattle about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Decent public transit for the size
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Definitely worth checking out..
21 upvotes
Alexa G.
preach
21 upvotes
cooper_kid
Moved here from Nashville about 6 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to housing market but Hope this helps!.
15 upvotes
Ryan M.
yeah no that's not right
14 upvotes
Adrian W.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Highland) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Urban sprawl is real.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
14 upvotes
Isabella Robinson
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The school system is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Feel free to reach out with questions..
13 upvotes
naomi_mama
honestly same experience here
11 upvotes
Theodore
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Fairview side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
All Countries
