Reno, Nevada

It’s not about the gambling. Yes, there is gambling but that’s a side show, it’s really about The Sierras. Nestled against the Sierra Nevada, Reno is situated at 4500 feet above sea level with easy access to skiing. Also, a river runs through it -- The Truckee River at its center with kayaking, a Riverwalk District and tons of local events. Reno is notorious for its high desert topography featuring epic vistas from trails and hiking spots throughout the city, the foothills and the Sierra Nevada range. You’ll experience rain, snow, sun, hurricane-like winds, hail and even thunder and lightning, sometimes within minutes -- the weather in Reno is referred to as ‘bipolar’ but sunny cold is common in the winter.

https://heregoesgabbi.com/lifestyle-blog/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-reno-nevada/

Renovations include the historic downtown post office with its art deco styling as a hip, new multifunction marketplace/retail/office space and the Freight House District (northeast of downtown.) Reno is home to the Minor League Reno Aces, tons of breweries and several destinations for after-hours fun. Reno is also a gateway to Burning Man, so there’s that vibe and it’s pretty Libertarian overall -- guns, recreational weed and gambling.

On the serious side, UNR (a doctoral university) is best known for its science, engineering and medical programs, including earthquake science and biotechnology. Both students at UNR and potential employers mutually benefit from a “pipeline” relationship, by which recent grads often get jobs in Reno and stay in the area.

No state income tax, Triple A Ball (Reno Aces) and Lake Tahoe is 45 minutes away. Also, If you’re sick of the tortuous walk of shoeless shame through airport security, you might feel the Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the happiest place on earth.

Here's a review of Reno from a local and someone who recently returned:
I recently moved back to Reno after being in the military for six years. A lot has changed with housing, transportation and quality of life. It seems busier than I remember. I live in West Reno, where it's quiet but not too far away from UNR or even TMCC. The things that make me stay are the outdoor activities. The area has a seemingly unending amount of things to do like hiking, kayaking, fishing, swimming, floating, hunting, boating, skiing/boarding in the winter and early spring. It's a cool place to live. Good luck with your move and Welcome!

For more reviews of what living in Reno is like from locals check out: The Buzz

K-12 schools are not great but housing can be pricey and costs are still going up as Millennials and Tech workers make the move. Nevertheless, the local economy can suffer unstable highs and lows.

Here's a review from a local with the Pros and Cons of living in Reno: Pros: proximity to everything you can do outside- hiking, snowboarding, boating. The area is beautiful imo. Sunshine like 400 days a year. People are kind. Easy to get around. I’m excited about the continuing new growth. Easy to get to areas like Sac or SF for a day of you want without having to live there. Cons: housing is way more expensive than what it’s worth imo. The job market isn’t great. Schools aren’t great. No venues for bigger acts, and although the art scene is growing it’s not exactly thriving.