First post here. I'm a 47-year-old contractor and The median home value here is around $490,100, which is pretty steep. Median household income is $151,131, which feels pretty solid for the area. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Let me know your thoughts.
13 upvotes
14 Replies
Paisley
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 26, moved here 1 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Old Town and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The safety situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. surprisingly good 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 Denver, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
32 upvotes
Genesis J.
I'm a project manager and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
28 upvotes
Oliver Green
great question, following
26 upvotes
Thomas Rogers
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Zoe Ross
I've lived in Downtown for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. When I first moved here from Charlotte, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- The job market scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Property taxes are high
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
21 upvotes
Valentina Hall
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The traffic is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Would recommend to anyone considering it..
19 upvotes
Michael C.
literally same
15 upvotes
Brielle Perez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 57, moved here 8 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in Springfield and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Friendly community, easy to meet people
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The safety situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for singles. tough vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K 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.
11 upvotes
Isla Scott
Saving this thread
10 upvotes
Valentina
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely tough and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Downtown) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Homeless population growing downtown.
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.
10 upvotes
Avery
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great seafood places. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
5 upvotes
Nora Price
Came here for family and stayed because it's not perfect but it works for me. The community vibe is honestly underrated and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
5 upvotes
Ezekiel Morris
literally same
1 upvotes
Brooks Reed
Bought a house here in 2021 and I genuinely enjoy living here. Property values have gone up significantly since then.
All Countries
