So, I'm a 41-year-old data analyst and Homes are going for about $434,900 on average. The suburbs are where most families end up. What are your go-to spots? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
5 upvotes
14 Replies
Zoey Jones
This.
33 upvotes
Melanie Torres
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 51, moved here 13 years ago from New York. I've lived in South and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Affordable housing options
2. Strong sense of community
3. Lots of family-friendly activities
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The public transit situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- South: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 New York, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K 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.
27 upvotes
Ian E.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Uptown for 7 years. Moved from Chicago for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is average. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Uptown schools are improving. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Limited shopping options. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
26 upvotes
Ryan
100%
25 upvotes
Logan
following this thread
25 upvotes
Aaliyah Jimenez
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Meadowbrook area are underrated. Kids love it here.
25 upvotes
Leo Turner
wish I knew this sooner
23 upvotes
Patrick G.
thanks for sharing
21 upvotes
Eli Moore
hmm interesting perspective
19 upvotes
Sadie
glad someone said it
10 upvotes
Sarah Patel
Used to live on the Old Town side, now on the Highland side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
8 upvotes
Asher W.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Portland about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and school.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Strong job market in several industries
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Limited shopping options
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are affordable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Happy to answer more specific questions..
7 upvotes
David K.
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it was the best decision I ever made. No regrets on my end..
5 upvotes
Joseph Rodriguez
I'm a HR manager and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is surprisingly good and there's always something going on.
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