Hey, I grew up here but left for a while. Average temperature is around 66--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 4.9%, which is about average. Poverty rate is 12.0%, which is around average. Homes are going for about $511,900 on average. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Am I overthinking this? The city has invested a lot in new development. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Property taxes are high but you get good services. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
4 upvotes
14 Replies
Avery Reed
We moved here with our family and I have mixed feelings honestly. Schools in Westside area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Nathan King
Totally agree!
30 upvotes
Benjamin Kelly
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is food scene. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
25 upvotes
Charlotte Scott
I've lived in Uptown for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Minneapolis, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- The cost of living scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited shopping options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
24 upvotes
Jack G.
glad someone said it
22 upvotes
Brooklyn Peterson
glad someone said it
21 upvotes
Julian James
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Seattle and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: The market is competitive but not impossible. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in South. It's tough for what you get.
Jobs: The market is reasonable right now, especially in education. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 11 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: average. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
18 upvotes
Nathan B.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Nashville about 6 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good internet infrastructure
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Property taxes are high
- Road conditions need improvement
Financially, we've found it improving compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are developing, gas is tough.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. Happy to answer more specific questions..
16 upvotes
Brian A.
I've lived in Westside for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- The food scene scene is surprisingly good
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Not a lot of cultural diversity
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for couples. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
15 upvotes
Adrian H.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 30, moved here 2 years ago from Portland. I've lived in North and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally improving - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The housing market situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- North: Great for retirees. tough vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 developing. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $70K-$80K 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.
15 upvotes
Melanie A.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a social worker who relocated here from Salt Lake City about 4 years ago. The main reasons were work and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Decent public transit for the size
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Can feel isolated
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are competitive, gas is challenging.
Socially, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
13 upvotes
Elena Allen
My experience has been mostly positive. the quality of life is solid. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
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