Random thought, Been living here since 2020. The median home value here is around $186,300, which is actually reasonable. With a population of 38,447, Urbana is a smaller city. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Has anyone dealt with this? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
1 upvotes
10 Replies
Landon Williams
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Meadowbrook. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in government. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 15 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Southern.
Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Carson Collins
I'm a data analyst and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is improving and there's always something going on.
33 upvotes
bostonwalker2022
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 2 years. Moved from Austin for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. West 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Mateo Cooper
Came here for school and stayed because it was the best decision I ever made. The healthcare is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
22 upvotes
Lillian
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
22 upvotes
Roman Hill
I work in construction here and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The job market for my field is challenging. No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Greyson Ward
I've lived in West for about 2 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good airport with direct flights
- The dating scene scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Evelyn
bump
8 upvotes
tulsawalker2025
honestly same experience here
6 upvotes
Sarah Sanchez
Bought a house here in 2022 and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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