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Nevaeh W. living

Pros and cons of Bend after 13 years

Hey, Median household income is $88,792, which feels pretty solid for the area.
57 upvotes

7 Replies

Nolan Alvarez
underrated comment
39 upvotes
Madelyn
I'm a nurse and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. The community is tough and there's always something going on.
35 upvotes
Natalie M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in The Heights for 6 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Lots of new construction which should help.

**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are improving. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Can feel isolated. And cost of living can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 7/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
16 upvotes
Kinsley James
nah I disagree
12 upvotes
Mason
I've lived in Downtown for about 15 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 Nashville, I was surprised by healthcare. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Good schools in most areas
- Diverse dining options
- The food scene scene is pretty good

The downsides:
- Homeless population growing downtown
- Far from beaches/mountains

Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for couples. Good luck with whatever you decide..
12 upvotes
Timothy W.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in South for 14 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.

**Employment:**
engineering is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is tough - 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. South schools are better than expected. 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. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Chain restaurants dominate. And walkability can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, 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.
6 upvotes
Maverick T.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Internet is hit or miss in most areas.
6 upvotes
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