My family moved here when I was a kid. It's a a smaller city city with about 34,036 people. Poverty rate is 3.9%, which is pretty low. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Would love some local perspective. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
25 upvotes
11 Replies
Brooklyn Stewart
Moved here from San Francisco about 2 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to nightlife but Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Alice H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 24, moved here 12 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Winters are long and cold
3. The pet-friendliness situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for retirees. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $80K-$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.
34 upvotes
Sebastian M.
hard disagree but ok
28 upvotes
Jeremiah Myers
hmm interesting perspective
25 upvotes
Sophie Hernandez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a pharmacist, 42, moved here 4 years ago from Portland. I've lived in East and Cedar Grove, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Close to major attractions
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Limited shopping options
3. The nightlife situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- East: Great for couples. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Cedar Grove: 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 pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $60K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
19 upvotes
Hannah Ramos
spot on
17 upvotes
Benjamin Williams
yeah no that's not right
14 upvotes
Leah K.
This.
13 upvotes
Charlotte S.
as a local I can confirm
8 upvotes
Brooks Myers
same here
7 upvotes
Nathan Castillo
I work in real estate here and it was the best decision I ever made. The job market for my field is average. Feel free to reach out with questions..
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