Longtime lurker here, Military spouse here. Median household income is $128,115, which feels pretty solid for the area. The unemployment rate is 2.5%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $506,300 on average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Thoughts? The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. The city has invested a lot in new development. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
7 upvotes
3 Replies
Eliana Torres
hmm interesting perspective
35 upvotes
emmett_heart
nah I disagree
23 upvotes
Eleanor Perez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 31, moved here 11 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in The Heights and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally tough - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The cultural scene situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- The Heights: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 San Francisco, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Feel free to reach out with questions.. 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.