Not sure if this has been asked before, but Homes are going for about $489,700 on average. Median household income is $59,124, which feels about average for the area. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
2 upvotes
15 Replies
Olivia G.
honestly same experience here
40 upvotes
Carter
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 5 years. Moved from Austin for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are underrated. 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 young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Luca Morales
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Houston about 9 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good healthcare facilities
- Lots of new development happening
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is challenging.
Socially, I genuinely enjoy living here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
Bennett R.
100%
26 upvotes
Peyton Gonzalez
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 1 years here, that's my honest assessment.
22 upvotes
Katherine Torres
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 49, moved here 4 years ago from Houston. I've lived in Riverside and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Property taxes are high
3. The weather situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Houston, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $50K-$80K 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.
21 upvotes
Wyatt White
Saving this thread
16 upvotes
Harper Jimenez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Denver about 15 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is decent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. No regrets on my end..
14 upvotes
Everett R.
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
Easton Hughes
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Nashville about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is improving.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Definitely worth checking out..
11 upvotes
Autumn Brown
I'm a writer and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
11 upvotes
Bella
I'm a HR manager and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
10 upvotes
Luca P.
Moved here from Pittsburgh about 13 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to nightlife but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
9 upvotes
William R.
following this thread
8 upvotes
Abigail Rivera
Bought a house here in 2022 and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Property values have gone up significantly since then.