Not sure if this has been asked before, but Household incomes average around $28,082 in Balcones Heights. The median home value here is around $214,300, which is actually reasonable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Is this normal for Balcones Heights?
12 upvotes
13 Replies
Robert Garcia
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem better than expected.
I've been here 10 years and it exceeded my expectations. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the school system is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Uptown side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
39 upvotes
Kennedy Robinson
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value public transit, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely pretty good and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (South) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
37 upvotes
detroit_andrew
This.
35 upvotes
nashvillefan2024
I'm a real estate agent and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. The community is average and there's always something going on.
28 upvotes
Nicholas
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 9 years and it was the best decision I ever made. The thing nobody mentions is job market. It's developing and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the nightlife is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Maple Ridge side vs the Cedar Grove side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
27 upvotes
Isla White
yep
21 upvotes
William Jones
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 26, moved here 13 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Sunset and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Good schools in most areas
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The healthcare situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for young professionals. challenging vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Austin, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are growing. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
16 upvotes
Emily Peterson
Moved here from LA about 12 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to housing market but Would recommend to anyone considering it..
15 upvotes
Joshua G.
Hot take but there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. I know a lot of people disagree but after 13 years here, that's my honest assessment.
11 upvotes
Brielle Hughes
good to know, thanks
11 upvotes
Bryan C.
it depends on the neighborhood
4 upvotes
George P.
I've lived in North for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I'm still on the fence after all this time. When I first moved here from Chicago, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
- The housing market scene is tough
The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Limited entertainment options
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. Hope this helps!.
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