Anyone else feel this way? Military spouse here. The unemployment rate is 0.9%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $75,777, which feels about average for the area. Poverty rate is 6.3%, which is pretty low. Crime rate is something to consider -Troy sits at 255.3 per 100K. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Should I be concerned? TIA! The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
5 upvotes
12 Replies
Linda B.
it depends on the neighborhood
36 upvotes
Michael Castillo
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 3 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is nightlife. 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 camping, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Old Town side vs the Downtown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
31 upvotes
Ryan Castillo
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely better than expected and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (North) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Can feel isolated.
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.
25 upvotes
Maverick P.
it depends on the neighborhood
24 upvotes
Austin Gutierrez
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in South area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
21 upvotes
Genesis W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 2 years. Moved from Tampa for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is tough - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are underrated. 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. Limited public transit options. And cultural scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 8/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Carson Carter
noted, appreciate it
20 upvotes
Jordan Scott
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
16 upvotes
Ruby Bailey
As someone who grew up here, I love the pace of life here. A lot has changed in the past few years though. food scene used to be much manageable but now it's challenging.
16 upvotes
Miles Gomez
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
12 upvotes
Ava Ruiz
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's not perfect but it works for me. Compared to San Diego it's better than expected.
11 upvotes
Jayden D.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely average and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Sunset) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
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