So, Born and raised here. Crime rate is something to consider -Advance sits at 299.2 per 100K. Average temperature is around 57--F, so the weather is moderate. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What are your go-to spots? Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
14 upvotes
7 Replies
Zoey Rodriguez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are pretty good, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
32 upvotes
Caroline Richardson
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 13 years. Moved from Boston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2019 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is solid - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland schools are average. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Winters are long and cold. Limited high-paying job options. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For couples, I'd say this is a 9/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
27 upvotes
Josiah R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a teacher who relocated here from Pittsburgh about 10 years ago. The main reasons were family and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Urban sprawl is real
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it surprisingly good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are manageable, gas is decent.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
27 upvotes
Nicholas Hughes
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Good luck with whatever you decide..
13 upvotes
Emma T.
lol so true
12 upvotes
Shirley W.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 39, moved here 1 years ago from Raleigh. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Oak Park, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Rising rent and home prices
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The public transit situation is manageable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for singles. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Oak Park: 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 Raleigh, everything felt surprisingly good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $40K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. 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.
All Countries
