Curious what people think. I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Poverty rate is 13.0%, which is around average. It's a a small town city with about 14,406 people. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What do you all think? It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
15 upvotes
11 Replies
Madelyn Thompson
been saying this for years
39 upvotes
Claire J.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Phoenix it's challenging.
38 upvotes
Miles Flores
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The school system is average compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Elizabeth S.
This.
34 upvotes
Quinn Jackson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 54, moved here 14 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Pine Hills and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Close to major attractions
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for young professionals. solid vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$90K 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.
17 upvotes
Waylon Johnson
facts
15 upvotes
Parker
not my experience at all
12 upvotes
Ellie Thompson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 46, moved here 4 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Eastside and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Close to major attractions
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The nightlife situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 Portland, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $80K-$140K 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.
11 upvotes
Jack Smith
literally same
10 upvotes
sf_hudson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I have mixed feelings honestly. Compared to Chicago it's excellent.
9 upvotes
Ethan R.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is food scene. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Worth doing your research before committing.