Hi all, I've been here for 6 years and Median household income is $79,715, which feels about average for the area. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $388,200 on average. The unemployment rate is 3.8%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. What neighborhoods would you suggest? The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
12 upvotes
5 Replies
Grace Johnson
Can confirm, been here 13 years.
39 upvotes
David Ramirez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Miami about 3 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are established, gas is better than expected.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Hope this helps!.
29 upvotes
Ruby T.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Austin it's excellent.
27 upvotes
Serenity G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 8 years. Moved from Seattle for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. construction 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:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are excellent. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Can feel isolated. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
cincy_dylan
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a project manager who relocated here from Baltimore about 12 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Nice parks and green spaces
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Financially, we've found it challenging compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is decent.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..