OK so We have two kids and Average temperature is around 78--F, so it's warm year-round. Poverty rate is 38.7%, which is higher than I expected. Median household income is $22,777, which feels on the lower side for the area. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Has anyone dealt with this? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly.
6 upvotes
6 Replies
Ryan Williams
Moved here from Baltimore about 10 years ago. it exceeded my expectations. Still getting used to healthcare but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Cooper J.
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is healthcare. Other than that, Hope this helps!.
25 upvotes
atl_liam
I work in construction here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is solid. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
22 upvotes
Willow Jimenez
Hot take but it's improved dramatically in recent years. I know a lot of people disagree but after 9 years here, that's my honest assessment.
18 upvotes
Christian Taylor
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Pittsburgh and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Lakewood. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in government. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally average. It took about 3 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: tough. Tons of options if you like Asian.
Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
16 upvotes
Marilyn R.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Dallas it's hit or miss.
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