OK so Crime rate is something to consider -Badger sits at 492.2 per 100K. The median home value here is around $291,600, which seems about average. It's a a small town city with about 19,033 people. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. What do you all think? Appreciate any input. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
7 upvotes
7 Replies
Weston Ramos
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much affordable but now it's improving.
30 upvotes
loving_nicholas90
yep
28 upvotes
Isaac Smith
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 4 years and I love the pace of life here. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's stable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the cultural scene is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is average.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Springfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
27 upvotes
Robert Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a contractor, 25, moved here 13 years ago from New York. I've lived in Fairview and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Low crime in most neighborhoods
3. Good healthcare facilities
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Not a lot of cultural diversity
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The pet-friendliness situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for retirees. hit or miss vibes, walkable.
- South: 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 New York, everything felt tough. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. 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.
13 upvotes
Peyton Wilson
100%
7 upvotes
Kinsley Torres
I've lived in Highland for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from San Francisco, I was surprised by pet-friendliness. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
7 upvotes
Liam Kelly
The food scene here is underrated. Tons of great Thai places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
All Countries
