Alright, I'm a college student here and Average temperature is around 53--F, so expect cold winters. Rent is about $909/month for a decent place. The unemployment rate is 4.3%, which is about average. With a population of 54,930, Anderson is a smaller city. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. Would love some local perspective. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development.
28 upvotes
15 Replies
Willow Phillips
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 11 years. Moved from Chicago for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same 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:**
consulting is strong here. tech 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's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have ski resorts 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 tough. 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. Bugs and humidity in summer. Far from beaches/mountains. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Natalie W.
I work in manufacturing here and I love the pace of life here. The job market for my field is hit or miss. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
40 upvotes
Stella W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 6 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is cost of living. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
36 upvotes
Harper Diaz
noted, appreciate it
34 upvotes
Jaxon Garcia
I've been living here for 2 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The cost of living is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
23 upvotes
Reagan Morgan
this is the way
22 upvotes
Brian A.
spot on
20 upvotes
Arianna Taylor
Weather-wise, the summers are hit or miss and winters are developing. You get used to it after the first year.
12 upvotes
Hunter Bailey
I've been living here for 3 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The pet-friendliness is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
12 upvotes
Jordan
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a marketing manager, 57, moved here 3 years ago from Salt Lake City. I've lived in Meadowbrook and Springfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally surprisingly good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Property taxes are high
3. The healthcare situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. decent vibes, walkable.
- Springfield: 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 Salt Lake City, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
11 upvotes
Addison Thomas
not my experience at all
10 upvotes
Adrian Martinez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
7 upvotes
Everett Clark
I work in manufacturing here and the quality of life is solid. The job market for my field is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
6 upvotes
Elena Cox
I'm a project manager and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is pretty good and there's always something going on.
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