Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm originally from Orlando and Median household income is $77,979, which feels about average for the area. The city has invested a lot in new development. What neighborhoods would you suggest?
6 upvotes
6 Replies
Zoe Sanders
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Worth doing your research before committing.
37 upvotes
Daniel Y.
As someone who grew up here, I have mixed feelings honestly. A lot has changed in the past few years though. weather used to be much pricey but now it's improving.
23 upvotes
Violet T.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 8 years and the quality of life is solid. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Downtown side vs the Oak Park side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Mia Anderson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 39, moved here 9 years ago from New York. I've lived in Midtown and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The community vibe situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: 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 New York, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K 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.
11 upvotes
Everett
This.
7 upvotes
Eugene W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 50, moved here 5 years ago from Houston. I've lived in North and Downtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The housing market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Downtown: 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 Houston, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
All Countries
