Anyone else feel this way? I've been here for 3 years and The median home value here is around $404,700, which is pretty steep. Crime rate is something to consider -Sturbridge sits at 176.9 per 100K. Homes are going for about $404,700 on average. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
7 upvotes
7 Replies
Sofia Clark
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from New York and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in West. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in finance. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally tough. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
39 upvotes
Logan Wright
Moved here last year, no regrets.
38 upvotes
Jonathan J.
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great seafood places. the quality of life is solid.
26 upvotes
emmett_chef
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
Cora W.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor recreation is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
16 upvotes
Thomas M.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from LA and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in West. It's excellent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in legal you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
sunny_kai63
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 41, moved here 8 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Eastside and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The weather situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K 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.