So, Just moved here 15 months ago and The unemployment rate is 1.7%, which is pretty low. It's a a small town city with about 13,792 people. Homes are going for about $184,200 on average. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. What do you all think? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
1 upvotes
5 Replies
Leo Ruiz
bump
40 upvotes
kckid2023
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The cost of living is hit or miss compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
24 upvotes
Violet Ramos
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 42, moved here 9 years ago from Tampa. I've lived in Springfield and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Growing food and restaurant scene
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The community vibe situation is affordable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Springfield: Great for retirees. improving vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Tampa, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $100K-$70K 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.
19 upvotes
Adam Allen
My experience has been mostly positive. it's exactly what I was looking for. The only thing I'd watch out for is cost of living. Other than that, Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Aaliyah Miller
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The outdoor recreation is genuinely surprisingly good and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Greenfield) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Portland, be prepared for the culture shock. school system is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
All Countries
