Curious what people think. I'm single, late 20s, and You can expect to pay around $893 for rent here. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The weather takes some getting used to. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
5 upvotes
14 Replies
wild_hannah88
As someone who grew up here, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. A lot has changed in the past few years though. school system used to be much manageable but now it's tough.
33 upvotes
Peyton Cruz
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from San Diego about 5 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are affordable, gas is challenging.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
33 upvotes
Isabelle Chavez
not my experience at all
28 upvotes
Madeline H.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 15 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Sunset side vs the Lakewood side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
28 upvotes
tucsonfan2024
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 58, moved here 8 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Pine Hills and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Lots of new development happening
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The community vibe situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: 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 Raleigh, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$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.
28 upvotes
Jameson Cook
I work in hospitality here and I have mixed feelings honestly. The job market for my field is solid. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Avery Brown
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 2 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
21 upvotes
Aaron C.
noted, appreciate it
20 upvotes
Santiago Price
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are average, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
17 upvotes
Alexa R.
couldn't agree more
15 upvotes
Claire Walker
not my experience at all
6 upvotes
Adam Garcia
Moved here last year, no regrets.
5 upvotes
Owen Reed
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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