Random thought, I grew up here but left for a while. The unemployment rate is 3.5%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $57,794, which feels about average for the area. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
13 upvotes
9 Replies
dominic_papa
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely solid and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (The Heights) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
38 upvotes
Victoria Wright
Used to live on the Westside side, now on the Eastside side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
29 upvotes
Grayson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 5 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the pet-friendliness is legit. And if you're into surfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
hudson_vibes
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 4 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the healthcare is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
27 upvotes
James Wilson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The safety is genuinely underrated and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Old Town) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.
26 upvotes
Ruby Myers
seconding this
15 upvotes
Ariana Bennett
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 2 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is challenging.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
7 upvotes
Riley
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 10 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is cultural scene. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
6 upvotes
houston_aaliyah
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.