First post here. Homes are going for about $184,100 on average. With a population of 1,279, Clifton is a small town. Rent is about $839/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. You can expect to pay around $839 for rent here. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
Pros:
- Friendly people
- Close to nature
- Easy commute
- Strong sense of community
- Good airport connections
Cons:
- Cold winters
- Few job opportunities in some fields
- Limited cultural events
- Not enough green space
What would you do? The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The city has invested a lot in new development. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
15 upvotes
14 Replies
Riley B.
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 13 years ago from Boston and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. We're paying /mo for a 1-bed in Eastside. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is stable right now, especially in tech. If you're in education you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: decent. Tons of options if you like Thai.
No regrets on my end..
37 upvotes
Abigail Hall
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a real estate agent, 32, moved here 12 years ago from Dallas. I've lived in Meadowbrook and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Decent public transit for the size
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally challenging - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited high-paying job options
2. Limited entertainment options
3. The dating scene situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for singles. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- East: 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 Dallas, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $70K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. 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.
29 upvotes
Eli A.
I've been living here for 9 years and I'd say I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The food scene is tough compared to other places I've lived. Overall Good luck with whatever you decide..
25 upvotes
true_jonathan9
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely underrated and I've found it's been a really good experience overall. My neighborhood (Old Town) is stable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Raleigh, be prepared for the culture shock. safety is completely different here. And Winters are long and cold.
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.
19 upvotes
Skylar
Used to live on the Sunset side, now on the Meadowbrook side. Completely different vibe. I have mixed feelings honestly.
18 upvotes
Hazel Gray
hmm interesting perspective
17 upvotes
Ezekiel Sanders
big facts right here
11 upvotes
Andrew Reed
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 10 years. Moved from Phoenix for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. 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 3-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is pretty good - we have lakes 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 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. Limited high-paying job options. Homeless population growing downtown. And weather can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Luke Brooks
literally same
8 upvotes
Willow M.
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it exceeded my expectations. Internet is pretty good in most areas.
7 upvotes
Nova Wood
Moved here last year, no regrets.
7 upvotes
Julian Hall
I've lived in The Heights for about 3 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's been a really good experience overall. When I first moved here from Tampa, I was surprised by school system. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Friendly community, easy to meet people
- The cost of living scene is improving
The downsides:
- Limited shopping options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Hope this helps!.
6 upvotes
Diane S.
I've been living here for 6 years and I'd say it was the best decision I ever made. The housing market is improving compared to other places I've lived. Overall Happy to answer more specific questions..
5 upvotes
Joshua Scott
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
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