Anyone else feel this way? You can expect to pay around $1,170 for rent here. Homes are going for about $193,200 on average. Rent is about $1,170/month for a decent place. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Does this match your experience? Appreciate any input. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
13 upvotes
5 Replies
Henry Wilson
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in tech. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 9 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like sushi.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
16 upvotes
Cora Ruiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 50, moved here 8 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Bugs and humidity in summer
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. surprisingly good 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 Phoenix, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K 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.
16 upvotes
Everly Ruiz
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 9 years ago from Raleigh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Springfield. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in tech. If you're in consulting you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Southern.
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