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Zoe B. housing

Is Brighton still affordable?

OK so I'm a teacher here and Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. The median home value here is around $475,100, which is pretty steep. The unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is pretty low. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Does this match your experience? People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services.
12 upvotes

3 Replies

Julia B.
I've lived in North for about 1 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.

I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by cost of living. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.

A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Nice parks and green spaces
- The school system scene is underrated

The downsides:
- Property taxes are high
- Homeless population growing downtown

Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for couples. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
39 upvotes
Jayden King
seconding this
32 upvotes
Chloe Reed
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a social worker, 55, moved here 9 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Downtown 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. Good internet infrastructure
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The cost of living situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Downtown: Great for retirees. pretty good 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 Baltimore, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$100K here.

**Final verdict:**
Good luck with whatever you decide.. 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.
6 upvotes
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