Not sure if this has been asked before, but Does this match your experience? I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
0 upvotes
14 Replies
detroitsoul2020
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. I genuinely enjoy living here.
40 upvotes
fresno_sebastian
couldn't agree more
39 upvotes
indyguy2020
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 56, moved here 8 years ago from Pittsburgh. I've lived in East and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The walkability situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for families. improving 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 Pittsburgh, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
39 upvotes
Chloe
Moved here from Salt Lake City about 2 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to housing market but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
38 upvotes
Piper Watson
couldn't agree more
29 upvotes
Isabella Baker
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 4 years. Moved from Baltimore for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have ski resorts 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 hit or miss. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Far from beaches/mountains. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Claire Brown
Public transit is hit or miss here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
23 upvotes
Joseph A.
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the Downtown side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
21 upvotes
isla_living
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want food scene, then yeah this place is great. But if traffic matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
19 upvotes
Alexa J.
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is nightlife. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
19 upvotes
Sadie Parker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The walkability is genuinely better than expected and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Riverside) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from LA, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
15 upvotes
Nova Morgan
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I love the pace of life here. Compared to Atlanta it's average.
12 upvotes
Quinn Gutierrez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
4 upvotes
Maverick Moore
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from Boston about 8 years ago. The main reasons were work and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Good luck with whatever you decide..