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Matthew
best-worst
Top 5 things I love about Valparaiso
Curious what people think. Appreciate any input. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
0 upvotes
5 Replies
Genesis Turner
couldn't agree more
40 upvotes
Andrew
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 15 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Downtown. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Downtown. It's surprisingly good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 14 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Joshua Hughes
I'm a pharmacist and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is average and there's always something going on.
30 upvotes
tampachef2025
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 48, moved here 14 years ago from Boston. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The dating scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Boston, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K 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.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 48, moved here 14 years ago from Boston. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Urban sprawl is real
3. The dating scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for young professionals. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Boston, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$110K 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.
25 upvotes
Cameron King
Moved here from Seattle about 5 years ago. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Still getting used to cost of living but No regrets on my end..
20 upvotes