Anyone else feel this way? My partner and I are Homes are going for about $382,800 on average. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
1 upvotes
13 Replies
Ella Ross
Weather-wise, the summers are challenging and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
38 upvotes
Willow Myers
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 8 years. Moved from Dallas for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
construction is strong here. education is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have national forests 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 tough. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Limited entertainment options. And job market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 7/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
31 upvotes
Ian Flores
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Hope this helps!.
26 upvotes
Asher Long
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in Westside area are underrated. Kids love it here.
21 upvotes
Michael Brown
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's been a really good experience overall.
15 upvotes
evan_walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a physical therapist, 32, moved here 1 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Sunset and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
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. Limited public transit options
2. Limited shopping options
3. The traffic situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 Chicago, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is established. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
14 upvotes
Ariana Ramirez
same here
9 upvotes
Allison W.
I work in hospitality here and it's been a really good experience overall. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
5 upvotes
Gabriel Baker
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cultural scene is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
2 upvotes
Parker Green
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value cost of living, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely improving and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Riverside) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. cultural scene is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
2 upvotes
Jack Parker
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in North. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in finance. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: better than expected. Tons of options if you like seafood.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
1 upvotes
Sarah M.
facts
1 upvotes
Aria Brooks
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in South area are average. Kids love it here.
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