Alright, I'm originally from Cleveland and Rent is about $1,458/month for a decent place. Median household income is $81,141, which feels pretty solid for the area. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. What would you do? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods.
9 upvotes
10 Replies
Adrian H.
been saying this for years
36 upvotes
Samuel Garcia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 7 years. Moved from San Diego for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown 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. Winters are long and cold. Limited entertainment options. And public transit can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Aurora Adams
bump
34 upvotes
Megan C.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely better than expected and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (West) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
33 upvotes
Jace W.
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Southern places. it's been a really good experience overall.
31 upvotes
Mia Wilson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Atlanta about 3 years ago. The main reasons were family and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are competitive, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
31 upvotes
Jace Patel
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a pharmacist who relocated here from Baltimore about 10 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good internet infrastructure
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I'm still on the fence after all this time. Feel free to reach out with questions..
22 upvotes
Easton Long
I've lived in Downtown for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by weather. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Lots of new development happening
- The job market scene is better than expected
The downsides:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
21 upvotes
Serenity S.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value safety, you'll love it. The cost of living is genuinely tough and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Denver, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe 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.
21 upvotes
Kai Carter
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a electrician who relocated here from San Francisco about 7 years ago. The main reasons were quality of life and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Lots of new development happening
- Four distinct seasons
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it average compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are pricey, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. No regrets on my end..
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