First post here. I work in retail and Poverty rate is 5.1%, which is pretty low. The city has invested a lot in new development. What neighborhoods would you suggest? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
5 upvotes
12 Replies
Isabella Hughes
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Happy to answer more specific questions..
40 upvotes
Ava Ramirez
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 Portland for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have hiking trails 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 excellent. 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. Property taxes are high. Dating scene is rough. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 9/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Isaac M.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. it's been a really good experience overall. Worth doing your research before committing.
37 upvotes
Maverick Morales
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is school system. it's not perfect but it works for me. Worth doing your research before committing.
27 upvotes
Jayden
As someone who grew up here, it exceeded my expectations. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much manageable but now it's surprisingly good.
24 upvotes
Matthew Castillo
hmm interesting perspective
23 upvotes
Daniel Peterson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 34, moved here 10 years ago from Phoenix. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Greenfield, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Dating scene is rough
3. The cost of living situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Greenfield: 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 Phoenix, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $50K-$120K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. 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.
19 upvotes
Brooks W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 1 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is dating scene. It's affordable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the public transit is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Greenfield side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
15 upvotes
Ethan R.
Weather-wise, the summers are average and winters are pricey. You get used to it after the first year.
10 upvotes
living_aaliyah51
Totally agree!
8 upvotes
Luke L.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value school system, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely average and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (The Heights) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Phoenix, be prepared for the culture shock. traffic is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
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.
1 upvotes
Weston White
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is underrated in most areas.
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