Born and raised here. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. TIA! The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
4 upvotes
15 Replies
Kinsley
I've lived in Westside for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by walkability. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The public transit scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Andrew Gray
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 11 years and I genuinely enjoy living here. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Pine Hills side vs the Fairview side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
37 upvotes
Nora Rogers
hard disagree but ok
36 upvotes
Delilah Morgan
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely challenging and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Oak Park) is manageable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. safety 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.
34 upvotes
Dominic Bailey
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Boston about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not very walkable outside downtown
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Lots of new construction which should help. Groceries are growing, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
26 upvotes
Alexa
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The pet-friendliness is honestly average and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
25 upvotes
Valentina E.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are hit or miss, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
23 upvotes
Lily G.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Highland) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Miami, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
20 upvotes
Levi R.
Weather-wise, the summers are excellent and winters are growing. You get used to it after the first year.
19 upvotes
Danielle S.
Can confirm, been here 6 years.
17 upvotes
Mason Nelson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value walkability, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely pretty good and I've found I genuinely enjoy living here. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Boston, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
11 upvotes
Amanda L.
Can confirm, been here 10 years.
8 upvotes
Bennett C.
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. cost of living used to be much established but now it's surprisingly good.
8 upvotes
Elizabeth Ward
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Fairview area are decent. Kids love it here.
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