I come from Milwaukee, where you can't get a dumpy, rat-infested, hole in the wall for less than $700/mo. And after living in the same house for 10 years, I didn't really know any of my neighbors, because down there, people would just as soon step on your face than look at you.
I moved to Green Bay for my first job, and I had NO PLANS to stay here long-term. I was just looking for someplace cheap to crash at night. When I found the Ashwaubenon Estates, at $525/mo (then), I didn't have very optimistic expectations. But I hit the jackpot.
I got a very nice, spacious, and clean apartment. This same apartment would easily have cost me $1200 in Milwaukee. A balcony and two walk-in closets in a one bedroom? That's just crazy! Of course, there are some things left to be desired, like the small garages and driveways - my truck doesn't get in and out very easily. But for the price, you can't hardly beat it.
Also, in stark contrast to Milwaukee, I know my neighbors very well, and am very tight friends with some of them. Between us, we have open-door policies which I haven't seen since college dorm life. We host periodic poker parties and have lots of fun.
I've been here over 3 years now. If someone would have told me back in 2006 that I'd still be here now, I'd've told them they were on crack. But here I am, and frankly, I'm in no rush to leave.