Not sure if this has been asked before, but I work in retail and The unemployment rate is 2.0%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $1,513,400, which is pretty steep. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. What would you do? The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up.
25 upvotes
3 Replies
Luca P.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a nurse, 31, moved here 7 years ago from Portland. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Lots of new development happening
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Road conditions need improvement
3. The traffic situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for young professionals. average 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 Portland, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are competitive. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
36 upvotes
Aaliyah Lopez
exactly what I was thinking
33 upvotes
Robert C.
The food scene here is solid. Tons of great Asian places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
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