Not sure if this has been asked before, but I've been here for 18 years and The unemployment rate is 1.5%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Does this match your experience? The suburbs are where most families end up.
21 upvotes
12 Replies
Amanda T.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 15 years. Moved from Minneapolis for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's not perfect but it works for me. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are improving. 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 high-paying job options. Chain restaurants dominate. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Zoey J.
My experience has been mostly positive. it's been a really good experience overall. The only thing I'd watch out for is housing market. Other than that, Would recommend to anyone considering it..
32 upvotes
Owen C.
Bought a house here in 2017 and it's exactly what I was looking for. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
32 upvotes
Bennett King
I'm a pharmacist and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
25 upvotes
Skylar Rodriguez
This.
25 upvotes
Roman Cooper
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 29, moved here 13 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Midtown and Lakewood, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Dating scene is rough
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for retirees. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Lakewood: 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 challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$130K 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.
23 upvotes
Amy B.
underrated comment
20 upvotes
phillyrunner2025
I've lived in Downtown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- The safety scene is solid
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for retirees. Definitely worth checking out..
20 upvotes
Amelia James
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely tough and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Riverside) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
17 upvotes
Landon Y.
facts
15 upvotes
Emily Flores
haha yep pretty much
6 upvotes
Brielle Lee
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much established but now it's challenging.
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