I work in hospitality and Median household income is $82,778, which feels pretty solid for the area. The median home value here is around $947,000, which is pretty steep. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. Thanks in advance! It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
4 upvotes
7 Replies
Jordan P.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Compared to Chicago it's better than expected.
33 upvotes
Natalie Campbell
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 6 years. Moved from Austin for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2023 at k and it's now worth down slightly 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:**
real estate is strong here. hospitality 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 exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is pretty good - 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. The Heights schools are challenging. 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. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Far from beaches/mountains. And safety can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 9/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Robert Phillips
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a social worker, 53, moved here 13 years ago from Minneapolis. I've lived in Greenfield and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Good schools in most areas
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally pretty good - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The outdoor recreation situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for families. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Highland: 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 Minneapolis, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. 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.
19 upvotes
Mia Anderson
Used to live on the Oak Park side, now on the South side. Completely different vibe. it's exactly what I was looking for.
12 upvotes
Julia Anderson
thanks for sharing
10 upvotes
Elena Mitchell
+1
8 upvotes
Savannah Perez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 7 years and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The thing nobody mentions is community vibe. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the safety is legit. And if you're into kayaking, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Lakewood side vs the Sunset side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
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