Hello, My partner and I are Median household income is $172,083, which feels pretty solid for the area. Homes are going for about $629,000 on average. Crime rate is something to consider -Blauvelt sits at 485.5 per 100K. The suburbs are where most families end up. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. What do you all think? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
14 upvotes
4 Replies
Aurora Gray
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from San Francisco about 12 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. Older homes are where the value is. Groceries are established, gas is solid.
Socially, it exceeded my expectations. No regrets on my end..
22 upvotes
Olivia
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Fairview for 10 years. Moved from Chicago for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth up a bit 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:**
tech is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Fairview schools are surprisingly good. 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. Rising rent and home prices. Not a lot of cultural diversity. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Kennedy C.
I've lived in Downtown for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it exceeded my expectations. When I first moved here from Miami, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Good healthcare facilities
- Strong sense of community
- The pet-friendliness scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Urban sprawl is real
Overall I'd rate it 9/10 for young professionals. Good luck with whatever you decide..
7 upvotes
Hannah Smith
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 14 years. Moved from Seattle for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 3-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
healthcare is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
the quality of life is solid. The outdoor scene is tough - we have rivers 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 pretty good. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Winters are long and cold. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
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