Random thought, Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The weather takes some getting used to. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that.
7 upvotes
15 Replies
Allison Hughes
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Greenfield area are improving. Kids love it here.
40 upvotes
raleighguy2021
I've lived in Downtown for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's improved dramatically in recent years. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Diverse dining options
- The community vibe scene is tough
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Rising rent and home prices
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Happy to answer more specific questions..
38 upvotes
Sophia
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Riverside. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in tech. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 5 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: underrated. Tons of options if you like Thai.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
37 upvotes
Elijah Hernandez
My experience has been mostly positive. I genuinely enjoy living here. The only thing I'd watch out for is job market. Other than that, No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Brielle C.
interesting, hadn't considered that
36 upvotes
Madelyn Peterson
thanks for sharing
29 upvotes
Brielle Wright
Moved here from New York about 14 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to school system but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
lake_delilah43
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are underrated, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
21 upvotes
Lily Morris
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 11 years here, that's my honest assessment.
20 upvotes
Maverick White
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is public transit. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Lucy Thomas
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value outdoor recreation, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Midtown) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from San Diego, be prepared for the culture shock. weather is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
11 upvotes
Zoey Reyes
big facts right here
8 upvotes
cool_axel28
glad someone said it
4 upvotes
Benjamin Smith
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a chef, 58, moved here 10 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Lakewood and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Nice parks and green spaces
2. Affordable housing options
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Can feel isolated
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The safety situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
No regrets on my end.. 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.
3 upvotes
Axel Rogers
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Houston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in West. It's solid for what you get.
Jobs: The market is wild right now, especially in healthcare. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
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