I relocated for work and Household incomes average around $68,233 in Victoria. Average temperature is around 71--F, so it's warm year-round. With a population of 65,514, Victoria is a smaller city. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up.
2 upvotes
14 Replies
Oliver Mitchell
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The cultural scene is genuinely underrated and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Riverside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Not a lot of cultural diversity.
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.
31 upvotes
Betty M.
Totally agree!
29 upvotes
Hudson Reyes
I'm a contractor and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is underrated and there's always something going on.
26 upvotes
Landon M.
noted, appreciate it
25 upvotes
Delilah Ward
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 46, moved here 15 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Midtown and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Nightlife is limited
3. The traffic situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Midtown: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Portland, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$80K 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.
25 upvotes
Donna M.
Used to live on the Riverside side, now on the Sunset side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
23 upvotes
Christian Sanchez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 2 years. Moved from Baltimore for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2019 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:**
education is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Fairview schools are better than expected. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Property taxes are high. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 5/10. Would recommend to anyone considering it.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Luca James
I've been living here for 13 years and I'd say it's not perfect but it works for me. The housing market is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Eliana G.
as a local I can confirm
18 upvotes
Weston Jones
facts
17 upvotes
Lydia Collins
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in North. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in legal. If you're in retail you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like Korean.
No regrets on my end..
13 upvotes
Maverick Richardson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Uptown) is pricey and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Francisco, be prepared for the culture shock. nightlife is completely different here. And Limited high-paying job options.
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.
9 upvotes
Ellie Long
preach
5 upvotes
Anna Harris
Moved here from LA about 1 years ago. the quality of life is solid. Still getting used to pet-friendliness but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
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