Alright, We're a young couple and It's a a small town city with about 20,703 people. Household incomes average around $75,522 in Wade Hampton. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Is this normal for Wade Hampton?
0 upvotes
9 Replies
Michael Jackson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Nashville it's hit or miss.
38 upvotes
Waylon M.
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Greenfield area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
37 upvotes
detroit_cameron
Hot take but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
34 upvotes
Declan Bailey
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if safety matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
31 upvotes
Cameron
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Houston about 12 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are established, gas is improving.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. Happy to answer more specific questions..
29 upvotes
Alexa Perez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The weather is genuinely decent and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Nashville, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic 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.
13 upvotes
Dominic A.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Riverside for 15 years. Moved from San Diego for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Riverside schools are improving. 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. Limited high-paying job options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
6 upvotes
Sophie A.
Used to live on the Cedar Grove side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. I genuinely enjoy living here.
3 upvotes
Victoria
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 38, moved here 13 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Old Town and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for retirees. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Raleigh, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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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