Should I move to West Covina or stay in Kansas City?
So, Average temperature is around 62--F, so the weather is moderate. Household incomes average around $98,570 in West Covina. Poverty rate is 7.7%, which is pretty low. Median household income is $98,570, which feels pretty solid for the area. With a population of 107K, West Covina is a mid-size city. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I overthinking this? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The food scene here is surprisingly good. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
60 upvotes
15 Replies
native_skylar95
Totally agree!
37 upvotes
Caroline A.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely improving and I've found it's not perfect but it works for me. My neighborhood (Pine Hills) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
34 upvotes
sflover2024
I've lived in Westside for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Four distinct seasons
- The traffic scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Road conditions need improvement
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
33 upvotes
Delilah H.
I've been living here for 5 years and I'd say it's exactly what I was looking for. The food scene is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
28 upvotes
theodore_chef
The food scene here is better than expected. Tons of great Mexican places. it's improved dramatically in recent years.
28 upvotes
Maverick Harris
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 3 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in South. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in retail. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally better than expected. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
26 upvotes
Aiden Hughes
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. I genuinely enjoy living here. Compared to Houston it's solid.
25 upvotes
Beverly P.
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are improving, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
24 upvotes
Katherine Taylor
haha yep pretty much
22 upvotes
Lillian G.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 14 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. construction is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's improved dramatically in recent years. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have desert landscapes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Maple Ridge schools are underrated. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Road conditions need improvement. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Isabelle
I've been living here for 8 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The cultural scene is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
13 upvotes
Jackson Jones
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Seattle about 6 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are wild, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
10 upvotes
Harper Martinez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from LA about 3 years ago. The main reasons were weather and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Good airport with direct flights
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are developing, gas is excellent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. No regrets on my end..
10 upvotes
Hannah Lopez
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from San Diego about 7 years ago. The main reasons were my partner's job and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Four distinct seasons
Cons that are real:
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is underrated.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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