First post here. Poverty rate is 5.8%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to.
3 upvotes
7 Replies
Nicholas Baker
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want job market, then yeah this place is great. But if cultural scene matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
28 upvotes
Serenity Brown
Used to live on the Uptown side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. it's not perfect but it works for me.
24 upvotes
Quinn Brown
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 55, moved here 7 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Active local events and festivals
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Urban sprawl is real
2. Not very walkable outside downtown
3. The job market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. better than expected 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 Denver, everything felt solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific 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.
21 upvotes
Ian Hill
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is solid in most areas.
13 upvotes
portland_amelia
bump
9 upvotes
Daniel Richardson
Used to live on the South side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. it exceeded my expectations.
4 upvotes
Hazel Green
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 1-bedroom. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Compared to Chicago it's hit or miss.
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