Hey, I'm a teacher here and It's a a smaller city city with about 34,317 people. With a population of 34,317, Stow is a smaller city. Homes are going for about $238,000 on average. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Does this match your experience? The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
3 upvotes
7 Replies
Alexa Long
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Minneapolis about 8 years ago. The main reasons were family and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Close to major attractions
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. No regrets on my end..
39 upvotes
Luke Hall
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Chicago it's better than expected.
30 upvotes
Hazel
same here
30 upvotes
Allison L.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 26, moved here 7 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Riverside and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally underrated - 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 food scene situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Portland, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
19 upvotes
Bennett
I work in real estate here and I genuinely enjoy living here. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
16 upvotes
hailey_soul
Moved here last year, no regrets.
13 upvotes
Anna W.
Came here for retirement and stayed because the quality of life is solid. The public transit is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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