Household incomes average around $64,479 in Taft. Crime rate is something to consider -Taft sits at 711.8 per 100K. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. Thoughts? Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
6 upvotes
11 Replies
Emily Richardson
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are solid, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
31 upvotes
Miles Sanders
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem excellent.
I've been here 8 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
Adam James
Can confirm, been here 11 years.
26 upvotes
Connor Brooks
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 2 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is weather. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Cora Kim
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. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
23 upvotes
loving_sophie40
following this thread
22 upvotes
Parker P.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cultural scene. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
21 upvotes
Aaliyah Hall
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 52, moved here 3 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Springfield and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Property taxes are high
3. The outdoor recreation situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for families. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with 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.
17 upvotes
Christian Gray
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
9 upvotes
Nolan Rivera
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
9 upvotes
Emmett Long
The food scene here is average. Tons of great BBQ places. it was the best decision I ever made.
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