Longtime lurker here, The unemployment rate is 2.1%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $318,800, which seems about average. Poverty rate is 4.5%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Is this normal for Urbandale? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
20 upvotes
4 Replies
Weston Wood
yep
32 upvotes
Dominic Reyes
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a writer, 27, moved here 1 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Meadowbrook and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Diverse dining options
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The public transit situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Baltimore, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $90K-$80K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
17 upvotes
Donald L.
preach
4 upvotes
Connor R.
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Riverside area are challenging. Kids love it here.
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