Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm retired and Median household income is $88,792, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Bend sits at 153.1 per 100K. With a population of 101K, Bend is a mid-size city. Average temperature is around 49--F, so expect cold winters. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
34 upvotes
12 Replies
Lydia Y.
Public transit is underrated here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
38 upvotes
Lauren R.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Boston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Springfield. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in retail. If you're in government you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 13 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: pretty good. Tons of options if you like Korean.
Definitely worth checking out..
33 upvotes
Aria
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem decent.
I've been here 12 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is traffic. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into rock climbing, this place is tough.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the North side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
29 upvotes
Jordan Cook
Moved here from Portland about 1 years ago. I have mixed feelings honestly. Still getting used to healthcare but Definitely worth checking out..
28 upvotes
Santiago Martin
wish I knew this sooner
27 upvotes
Matthew
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is housing market. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Worth doing your research before committing.
22 upvotes
Everly Gray
following this thread
14 upvotes
William Green
I'm a sales manager and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
14 upvotes
jacob_local
Came here for a fresh start and stayed because I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The weather is honestly improving and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
7 upvotes
Jaxon H.
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The dating scene is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall It's not for everyone but it works for us..
4 upvotes
Carson Castillo
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely decent and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Westside) is reasonable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Austin, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Rising rent and home prices.
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.
3 upvotes
Quinn Jackson
I've lived in Highland for about 14 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I genuinely enjoy living here. When I first moved here from Boston, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Strong job market in several industries
- The food scene scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for retirees. Good luck with whatever you decide..
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