Not sure if this has been asked before, but We have two kids and Crime rate is something to consider -University City sits at 544.2 per 100K. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
16 upvotes
7 Replies
Aurora
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is healthcare. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
36 upvotes
Audrey Patel
My experience has been mostly positive. it's not perfect but it works for me. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
31 upvotes
Piper
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 52, moved here 2 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Lakewood and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cost of living situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Phoenix, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
28 upvotes
Maya T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 30, moved here 15 years ago from Miami. I've lived in Oak Park and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Affordable housing options
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The community vibe situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 Miami, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
27 upvotes
Thomas Ramirez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Phoenix about 4 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Good healthcare facilities
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are wild, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Happy to answer more specific questions..
22 upvotes
Joseph
good to know, thanks
11 upvotes
Mia Cooper
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 5 years. Moved from Portland for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I have mixed feelings honestly. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South 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. Limited high-paying job options. Far from beaches/mountains. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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