Hey everyone, I'm retired and It's a a smaller city city with about 58,599 people. Median household income is $54,941, which feels on the lower side for the area. Average temperature is around 60--F, so the weather is moderate. Crime rate is something to consider -Burlington sits at 850.2 per 100K. The suburbs are where most families end up. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Has anyone dealt with this? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
26 upvotes
5 Replies
vegasrunner2023
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Pine Hills for 14 years. Moved from Seattle for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is surprisingly good. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth up significantly 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:**
tech is strong here. marketing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is better than expected - 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. Pine Hills schools are underrated. 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. Limited high-paying job options. Chain restaurants dominate. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Michael Hughes
seconding this
28 upvotes
Lauren R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 14 years. Moved from Salt Lake City for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are competitive for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is challenging - 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. West schools are better than expected. 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. Nightlife is limited. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. Definitely worth checking out.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.