Hey everyone, Military spouse here. It's a a smaller city city with about 90,147 people. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. Let me know your thoughts. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
9 upvotes
6 Replies
Carson Allen
Moved here last year, no regrets.
29 upvotes
Waylon
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from Charlotte about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Close to major attractions
- Affordable housing options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it decent compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is challenging.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Happy to answer more specific questions..
26 upvotes
Emmett Robinson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a electrician, 27, moved here 9 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Fairview, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good internet infrastructure
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Can feel isolated
3. The job market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Fairview: 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 solid. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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
Maya Scott
Moved here from Dallas about 9 years ago. I genuinely enjoy living here. Still getting used to weather but Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
14 upvotes
Audrey Jimenez
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 43, moved here 6 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Cedar Grove and Maple Ridge, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Friendly community, easy to meet people
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Strong job market in several industries
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Cedar Grove: Great for couples. improving vibes, walkable.
- Maple Ridge: 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 Baltimore, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. 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.
14 upvotes
Jayden W.
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The community vibe is solid compared to other places I've lived. Overall Hope this helps!.
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