Curious what people think. I work in insurance and You can expect to pay around $1,176 for rent here. Household incomes average around $65,493 in Walla Walla. It's a a smaller city city with about 33,766 people. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Any advice would be great. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Axel G.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 29, moved here 3 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Can feel isolated
3. The weather situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Atlanta, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $60K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
34 upvotes
columbuswalker2023
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 6 years. Moved from Minneapolis for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. engineering is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is improving - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Pine Hills schools are better than expected. 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. Can feel isolated. Far from beaches/mountains. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 9/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
33 upvotes
Everett Sanders
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely hit or miss and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Cedar Grove) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
22 upvotes
Oliver
wish I knew this sooner
18 upvotes
Quinn R.
good to know, thanks
8 upvotes
sfgirl2020
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely tough and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
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.
2 upvotes
Carson Baker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The housing market is genuinely excellent and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Fairview) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.