Hey folks, Average temperature is around 55--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $2,077/month for a decent place. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
7 upvotes
9 Replies
Sophia K.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 7 years. Moved from Tampa for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. government is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are excellent. 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. Winters are long and cold. Bugs and humidity in summer. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
36 upvotes
Ryan R.
I'm a real estate agent and I've found I love the pace of life here. The community is decent and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
Sarah R.
Can confirm, been here 8 years.
34 upvotes
Thomas Scott
Hot take but I have mixed feelings honestly. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
28 upvotes
Savannah Smith
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
17 upvotes
Quinn Baker
seconding this
15 upvotes
Christopher C.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a data analyst who relocated here from New York about 1 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good internet infrastructure
- Active local events and festivals
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Chain restaurants dominate
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it better than expected compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are developing, gas is average.
Socially, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
14 upvotes
Ava Ortiz
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 31, moved here 3 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Highland and Sunset, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Limited shopping options
3. The school system situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Highland: Great for remote workers. excellent vibes, walkable.
- Sunset: 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 San Diego, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$90K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
8 upvotes
Caleb R.
Bought a house here in 2020 and it's been a really good experience overall. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
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