Hello, I grew up here but left for a while. The median home value here is around $346,100, which seems about average. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Any advice would be great.
14 upvotes
14 Replies
Joseph Hill
Moved here last year, no regrets.
40 upvotes
Eva
exactly what I was thinking
30 upvotes
Mason Rivera
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 6 years. Moved from Tampa for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are solid. 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. Limited shopping options. Homeless population growing downtown. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Evan Ruiz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
27 upvotes
Maria M.
glad someone said it
23 upvotes
Madelyn Flores
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Midtown side. Completely different vibe. I'm still on the fence after all this time.
19 upvotes
Everett Adams
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great seafood places. it was the best decision I ever made.
16 upvotes
Everett Patel
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
16 upvotes
river_isaiah80
great question, following
12 upvotes
Skylar Price
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. traffic used to be much affordable but now it's better than expected.
10 upvotes
Audrey Scott
great question, following
9 upvotes
la_nicholas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 54, moved here 12 years ago from Nashville. I've lived in Lakewood and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Can feel isolated
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for retirees. decent vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
6 upvotes
Camila Kim
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Houston it's excellent.
3 upvotes
Easton James
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it exceeded my expectations. The dating scene is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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