I'm a remote worker and It's a a small town city with about 2,229 people. Median household income is $128,214, which feels pretty solid for the area. Poverty rate is 3.6%, which is pretty low. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Thanks for reading. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
7 upvotes
6 Replies
Nevaeh Kelly
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 42, moved here 14 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in The Heights and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The community vibe situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for families. solid 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 Baltimore, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
40 upvotes
gianna_guy
Can confirm, been here 14 years.
34 upvotes
Sebastian Turner
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 27, moved here 2 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Highland and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The traffic situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for young professionals. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 San Diego, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
33 upvotes
Cora S.
hmm interesting perspective
23 upvotes
Adrian Mitchell
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
12 upvotes
Lucy Smith
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 50, moved here 9 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Fairview and Riverside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The nightlife situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for young professionals. solid vibes, walkable.
- Riverside: 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 San Diego, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are manageable. Gas is manageable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$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.
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