How's the economy? (Lexington: apartments, opthamologists, lofts)

[wrx04]

I am a 24 y.o. who will be graduating optometry school in May, and I'm looking to get out of Michigan since the economy is brutal. After reading that Lexington was rated one of the top cities (3rd) to live for young guys in Men's Journal, I thought I'd look into it a bit further. What is the economy like in Lex right now? Does anyone know what the market is like for eyecare providers there?

I want a place that has a relatively low cost of living, growing economy, city atmosphere, and enough young people to form a new network of friends. Is Lexington the right place?

[garrettbernard]

Cost of living isn't bad... a higher end apartment will run about $450 or so, most with utilities. $330 is a decent apartment, as far as I've heard. I haven't actually hunted around for an apartment lately. The economy in Lexington is growing, though the same can't be said for Kentucky as a whole (but I suppose it is like that in most states right now). Downtown, it is definitely a city atmosphere, but about eight blocks in either direction and you'll start getting into residential areas. Downtown Lexington is pretty small, I would say, though there is a lot there. Downtown is growing east-west, due to residential areas being north and south.

There are a lot of bars, and you can probably find one of about any flavor to fit your tastes. There are also a lot of restaurants, etc. There are a LOT of young people, especially August through May, because Lexington is home to the UK (50,000+ college kids), as well as there being three liberal arts colleges within a 30 minute drive (and one of them is right downtown).

I go to school in Lexington, so I'm there most of the year. It really is a beautiful city. The worst part about the city, though, has to be the roads. They just aren't organized all that well (or perhaps too well?) Basically, unless it is rush hour, you can get wherever you want to go in 20 minutes without much hassle, though there really is no easy way to get anywhere. (The city is designed with downtown surrounded by a bypass circling it with about a 4-6 mile radius.) Downtown can often be the most difficult place to reach, just because there is no highway to get there.

Realistically, though, Lexington's design is something you get used to pretty quick. It is fairly simple to learn, in my opinion. It really isn't that bad, but I feel I should say both pros and cons.

As for the things you asked for in your last line, Lexington has them. Every one of them. And it has them in good numbers!

[azadehbd]

"Cost of living isn't bad... a higher end apartment will run about $450 or so, most with utilities. $330 is a decent apartment, as far as I've heard."

I can't even tell you how amazing that sounds! I'm trapped in San Diego until I graduate, and for a dated cramped apartment in any decent semi-low crime (a.k.a just need to look out for getting mugged) in my area of La Jolla, you're looking at about $1700-1900 a month. Not a luxury apt w/ washer and dryer or anything either, and no utilities included.....and it isn't like you actually make decent money around here! lol.....oh well, I'm hoping to get out to Lexington to visit in September, and then after graduation in February I'm out!

[garrettbernard]

Most of the apartments I've looked at are in student areas, so they weren't the best well kept. One of my best friends just got a studio apartment for $550 a month, and he loves it. Realistically, if you're looking outside of the college areas, it may be more like $500 or $600 a month for a single bed. I probably should have clarified that a bit more. At any rate, it is a LOT better than $1700 a month!

When you come out and visit, just take a look around some at a few options. Lexington has quite a few studio apartments (large upstairs rooms of old houses). Good luck! I hope you enjoy the visit!

[InLondon]

Hmmm, the nicer apartments like those at Fountains at Andover, Hamburg Farms and Beaumont Farms will cost you over $600 a month for 1 bedroom.

[blossom4792]

Salaries are a little bit low compared to larger cities, but there seem to be abundant jobs in health care. I can't imagine you would have any problem on that front. Yes, I think Lexington has the things you mentioned - just find the right neighborhood (you don't want to be stuck too far out in the suburbs). [I was at the eye doctor today - an opthalmologist - and it was standing room only so you're coming to the right place - we need you!].

[bluegrassgirl]

Originally Posted by garrettbernard

Cost of living isn't bad... a higher end apartment will run about $450 or so, most with utilities. $330 is a decent apartment, as far as I've heard.

Oh, mercy.... you won't find a "higher end" apt for $450!!! You will find a decent one bedroom for $550-$600. A higher end one can cost you up closer to a $1,000 bucks! Still much cheaper than a larger city, but $450/month is what you would pay for a studio/student apt/etc.

I'm not familiar with the availability of younger optometrists or opthamologists here, but do know that there are several older guys close to retirement age.

[teebird1012]

Originally Posted by bluegrassgirl

I'm not familiar with the availability of younger optometrists or opthamologists here, but do know that there are several older guys close to retirement age.

My dad is an opthomologist and he's probably going to retire in the next few years. New doctors are in great demand here, seriously. Many of our family friends are doctors and surgeons in town, most of them around age 50+. I think you won't have any problems finding a job here. I can DM you some more info about some of the local practices if you like.

[blossom4792]

The original owner of my house is an optometrist, probably getting close to retirement. I haven't met him yet, but he's legendary around here. I wonder if this will ever be "my" house lol. I could also finagle sending you over to chat with him, just for the sake of networking. I'm thinking of having them over to see the house soon to see the old neighbors, etc. I can't imagine you would have any problem finding employment -- and that eases the apartment cost issue. I wouldn't recommend Lexington to every occupation per se, but the vast majority of jobs here are in health care. Lexington is also nice because, despite being a smaller city, there are neighborhoods carved out for all types of people and interests. I haven't loved every minute being here, but it really is quite a gem, really.

[wrx04]

Wow...thanks for the responses. Sounds like pretty good news so far. I would love to get some contact info from you guys, so if you get a chance, that would be awesome. My ideal situation would be to buy out an existing practice, so if you know anyone who is even close to retirement I would really appreciate the heads up.

Other than that, how about the housing situation? Are most of the houses in the suburbs new construction or are they older models? And how about those new lofts right downtown...has anyone been in those? They look pretty cool, but it's kinda hard to tell from the limited pics on the web. Thanks again.