Hello, Crime rate is something to consider -Union Beach sits at 203.9 per 100K. Household incomes average around $128,400 in Union Beach. Average temperature is around 54--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $452,900 on average. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
11 upvotes
10 Replies
Caroline Ruiz
seconding this
40 upvotes
Vivian Ward
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Greenfield for 12 years. Moved from Phoenix for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. engineering 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:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is improving - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Greenfield schools are solid. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Bugs and humidity in summer. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
38 upvotes
Mateo Roberts
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 49, moved here 14 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Downtown and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for young professionals. improving vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Raleigh, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
36 upvotes
Naomi Watson
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Westside area are challenging. Kids love it here.
36 upvotes
Ruby Anderson
honestly same experience here
32 upvotes
Carter P.
Came here for retirement and stayed because I love the pace of life here. The housing market is honestly solid and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
18 upvotes
charlotte_kinsley
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Oak Park for 10 years. Moved from Houston for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. retail 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:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is solid - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Oak Park 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. Property taxes are high. Homeless population growing downtown. And food scene can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
18 upvotes
Robert Evans
spot on
14 upvotes
Abigail Sanders
I've lived in Pine Hills for about 11 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 LA, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
- The food scene scene is solid
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Feel free to reach out with questions..
7 upvotes
omahalover2024
Came here for cost of living and stayed because it's been a really good experience overall. The public transit is honestly excellent and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
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