Anyone else feel this way? Military spouse here. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
14 upvotes
9 Replies
Eva Young
Can confirm, been here 3 years.
39 upvotes
Madelyn Allen
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 14 years. Moved from Nashville for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are average. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Thomas M.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 58, moved here 6 years ago from LA. I've lived in The Heights and Westside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The pet-friendliness situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for families. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Westside: 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 LA, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$70K 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.
24 upvotes
Elena Mitchell
+1
16 upvotes
Anna H.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 6 years. Moved from Miami for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
real estate is strong here. legal 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:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is improving - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are surprisingly good. 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. Homeless population growing downtown. Limited entertainment options. And pet-friendliness can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 8/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
la_lillian
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much growing but now it's hit or miss.
9 upvotes
Mackenzie Reyes
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely challenging and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (East) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from New York, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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
Quinn Perez
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 15 years here, that's my honest assessment.
8 upvotes
Ariana Phillips
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 6 years here, that's my honest assessment.