Curious what people think. I'm originally from Phoenix and Average temperature is around 57--F, so the weather is moderate. Poverty rate is 15.0%, which is around average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Am I wrong here? I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
19 upvotes
7 Replies
Elena Ruiz
As someone who grew up here, the quality of life is solid. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much developing but now it's pretty good.
36 upvotes
Logan Wood
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
29 upvotes
Jayden C.
this is the way
26 upvotes
Waylon Chavez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 33, moved here 4 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Austin, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $60K-$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.
20 upvotes
Kayden H.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I genuinely enjoy living here. Internet is underrated in most areas.
19 upvotes
Hannah Ruiz
literally same
4 upvotes
Logan Diaz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Nashville about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and weather.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are pricey, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Happy to answer more specific questions..