Longtime lurker here, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a a small town city with about 1,809 people. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development.
4 upvotes
14 Replies
Leah
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in East for 8 years. Moved from Minneapolis for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 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:**
education is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. East schools are decent. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Rising rent and home prices. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
39 upvotes
anna_life
Moved here from Denver about 2 years ago. it's been a really good experience overall. Still getting used to traffic but No regrets on my end..
35 upvotes
Jacob Castillo
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Salt Lake City it's solid.
32 upvotes
Alexander Lee
Hot take but I genuinely enjoy living here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 14 years here, that's my honest assessment.
31 upvotes
Kelly W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Miami about 8 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Active local events and festivals
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Property taxes are high
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is solid.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. No regrets on my end..
29 upvotes
Delilah
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
25 upvotes
John S.
We moved here with our family and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Schools in Cedar Grove area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
24 upvotes
Isabelle Lopez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a lawyer who relocated here from Portland about 10 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Lots of new development happening
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Dating scene is rough
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are affordable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Definitely worth checking out..
19 upvotes
Kinsley
hard disagree but ok
18 upvotes
Ezekiel C.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are decent, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
16 upvotes
Vincent B.
interesting, hadn't considered that
12 upvotes
Eli Mitchell
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor recreation is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
8 upvotes
Steven A.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely better than expected and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (East) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Minneapolis, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Road conditions need improvement.
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.
1 upvotes
Zoey Ruiz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a HR manager who relocated here from Seattle about 15 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Affordable housing options
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are pricey, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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