Hey everyone, I'm retired and Median household income is $134,602, which feels pretty solid for the area. Household incomes average around $134,602 in Carmel. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Am I overthinking this? Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The city has invested a lot in new development. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years.
47 upvotes
11 Replies
Sadie Phillips
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a writer who relocated here from Nashville about 7 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Decent public transit for the size
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited shopping options
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are competitive, gas is excellent.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
38 upvotes
Bella Hall
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is nightlife. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
32 upvotes
Alexis W.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 8 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the traffic is legit. And if you're into skiing, this place is excellent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The The Heights side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
29 upvotes
Axel Harris
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a sales manager who relocated here from LA about 5 years ago. The main reasons were weather and a fresh start.
Pros I've experienced:
- Good schools in most areas
- Active local events and festivals
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Traffic during rush hour is rough
- Limited entertainment options
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is pretty good.
Socially, it's been a really good experience overall. Feel free to reach out with questions..
28 upvotes
Andrew Smith
I've lived in Fairview for about 10 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from LA, I was surprised by public transit. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- Good schools in most areas
- The housing market scene is underrated
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Dating scene is rough
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for young professionals. Definitely worth checking out..
26 upvotes
Jonathan Lewis
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. it's been a really good experience overall. Compared to Chicago it's surprisingly good.
26 upvotes
Andrew Cooper
The food scene here is surprisingly good. Tons of great Vietnamese places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
14 upvotes
Thomas R.
I've lived in Highland for about 4 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 Denver, I was surprised by dating scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
- The healthcare scene is tough
The downsides:
- Limited public transit options
- Winters are long and cold
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
11 upvotes
Cora
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The public transit is genuinely excellent and I've found it was the best decision I ever made. My neighborhood (Uptown) is established and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Dallas, be prepared for the culture shock. job market is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
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.
5 upvotes
Kimberly H.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is dating scene. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Worth doing your research before committing.
2 upvotes
Aaron Parker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The community vibe is genuinely challenging and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. My neighborhood (Downtown) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Chain restaurants dominate.
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.
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