Random thought, I relocated for work and Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. With a population of 13,538, Vinings is a small town. It's a a small town city with about 13,538 people. The median home value here is around $551,700, which is pretty steep. Rent is about $1,761/month for a decent place. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Any advice would be great. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The food scene here is surprisingly good. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up.
2 upvotes
12 Replies
Avery Morris
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 32, moved here 5 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Lakewood and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
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. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The walkability situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for remote workers. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Seattle, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $40K-$100K 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.
37 upvotes
Everly T.
Came here for a job opportunity and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The food scene is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
35 upvotes
Ella Ortiz
same here
34 upvotes
caleb_papa
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem average.
I've been here 4 years and I'm still on the fence after all this time. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is better than expected.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Oak Park side vs the Eastside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Happy to answer more specific questions..
30 upvotes
Alice Flores
Totally agree!
30 upvotes
John Green
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Old Town. It's average for what you get.
Jobs: The market is manageable right now, especially in consulting. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
26 upvotes
Jayden King
I'm a physical therapist and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
20 upvotes
Ryan A.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is improving in most areas.
13 upvotes
Natalie
thanks for sharing
9 upvotes
Levi
Saving this thread
7 upvotes
wild_ezekiel38
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is outdoor recreation. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
All Countries
