Hey, I'm a nurse at the local hospital and Homes are going for about $222,300 on average. Household incomes average around $75,868 in Waverly. Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $1,125/month for a decent place. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Thoughts? Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
10 upvotes
7 Replies
Zoey Thomas
Totally agree!
30 upvotes
John Gray
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Worth doing your research before committing.
26 upvotes
larider2021
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value community vibe, you'll love it. The healthcare is genuinely improving and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Downtown) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Pittsburgh, be prepared for the culture shock. dating scene is completely different here. And Dating scene is rough.
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.
21 upvotes
Evelyn Jackson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely improving and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Eastside) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Limited shopping 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.
21 upvotes
Aiden Kelly
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Miami it's underrated.
16 upvotes
Eliana R.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 43, moved here 9 years ago from Austin. I've lived in South and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good airport with direct flights
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Rising rent and home prices
3. The dating scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for couples. underrated 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 Austin, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
10 upvotes
Liam L.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem tough.
I've been here 13 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is school system. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is hit or miss.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.