Curious what people think. Just moved here 4 months ago and Poverty rate is 14.0%, which is around average. The unemployment rate is 6.1%, which is concerning. The suburbs are where most families end up. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up.
4 upvotes
9 Replies
Thomas
hmm interesting perspective
39 upvotes
Hailey T.
Used to live on the Lakewood side, now on the North side. Completely different vibe. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad.
38 upvotes
tampa_ian
nah I disagree
31 upvotes
Dylan Wright
seconding this
30 upvotes
waylon_guy
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 5 years. Moved from Boston for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is average - we have mountains 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 surprisingly good. 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. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And community vibe can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
30 upvotes
Brooklyn Bennett
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 10 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Pine Hills. It's challenging for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in finance. If you're in finance you might struggle.
People: Generally underrated. It took about 4 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Southern.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
24 upvotes
mountain_thomas50
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The cost of living is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
21 upvotes
dc_waylon
I've lived in Downtown for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Austin, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The cultural scene scene is hit or miss
The downsides:
- Rising rent and home prices
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
1 upvotes
Jeffrey G.
We moved here with our family and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Schools in Meadowbrook area are underrated. Kids love it here.
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