First post here. Average temperature is around 74--F, so it's warm year-round. Crime rate is something to consider -Union Park sits at 149.5 per 100K. With a population of 11,111, Union Park is a small town. The unemployment rate is 2.7%, which is pretty low. You can expect to pay around $1,464 for rent here. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. TIA! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid.
4 upvotes
6 Replies
kcmama2020
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is weather. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.
37 upvotes
nashville_stella
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Seattle it's improving.
32 upvotes
true_ryan40
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great Thai places. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
15 upvotes
Owen C.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. it was the best decision I ever made. Worth doing your research before committing.
13 upvotes
Benjamin Rogers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 39, moved here 1 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Springfield and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The pet-friendliness situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for remote workers. better than expected 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 Portland, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
11 upvotes
Evan Martin
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Charlotte about 14 years ago. The main reasons were work and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Affordable housing options
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are manageable, gas is solid.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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