Hey everyone, I relocated for work and Household incomes average around $62,375 in Brookston. Homes are going for about $132,700 on average. Crime rate is something to consider -Brookston sits at 102.6 per 100K. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
9 upvotes
5 Replies
Adam Williams
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 15 years and I have mixed feelings honestly. The thing nobody mentions is public transit. It's pricey and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the housing market is legit. And if you're into fishing, this place is underrated.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the Highland side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Hope this helps!.
38 upvotes
Logan Garcia
haha yep pretty much
34 upvotes
Lillian Baker
As someone who grew up here, it's not perfect but it works for me. A lot has changed in the past few years though. housing market used to be much pricey but now it's excellent.
28 upvotes
Gerald C.
hmm interesting perspective
25 upvotes
Thomas Ross
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 10 years. Moved from Portland for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal 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:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West 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. Property taxes are high. Limited entertainment options. And pet-friendliness 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.
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