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Betty P. best-worst

What surprised you most about Urbana?

So, With a population of 38,447, Urbana is a smaller city. The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $45,854, which feels on the lower side for the area. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $951/month for a decent place. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.

Pros:
- Great weather
- Good job market
- Friendly people
- Strong sense of community

Cons:
- Limited public transit
- Limited nightlife
- Not very walkable
- Limited cultural events
What would you do? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
15 upvotes

2 Replies

Maverick Lewis
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to LA it's hit or miss.
28 upvotes
Willow Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.

I'm a writer who relocated here from San Francisco about 11 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and family.

Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Good healthcare facilities
- Good airport with direct flights

Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Chain restaurants dominate

Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are manageable, gas is challenging.

Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Definitely worth checking out..
15 upvotes
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