OK so I'm a teacher here and It's a a small town city with about 5,299 people. Rent is about $1,048/month for a decent place. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Thoughts? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
15 upvotes
12 Replies
Weston Reyes
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a software engineer, 56, moved here 7 years ago from Chicago. I've lived in Eastside and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Strong job market in several industries
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Strong sense of community
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited shopping options
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The weather situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Eastside: Great for couples. decent vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: 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 Chicago, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. 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.
40 upvotes
Nicholas Roberts
good to know, thanks
39 upvotes
gabriella_lover
I've lived in Highland for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by safety. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The safety scene is better than expected
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for remote workers. Would recommend to anyone considering it..
34 upvotes
Hannah Miller
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is improving in most areas.
31 upvotes
native_easton54
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want safety, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
22 upvotes
Eliana Perez
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 5 years here, that's my honest assessment.
19 upvotes
Jaxon P.
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
Santiago P.
wish I knew this sooner
13 upvotes
Jeremiah Nelson
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. I have mixed feelings honestly. Worth doing your research before committing.
9 upvotes
emma_native
seconding this
8 upvotes
Brooklyn W.
I've been living here for 14 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The school system is underrated compared to other places I've lived. Overall Definitely worth checking out..
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