The median home value here is around $101,200, which is actually reasonable. The unemployment rate is 3.4%, which is pretty low. Homes are going for about $101,200 on average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The weather takes some getting used to. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. What are your go-to spots? There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The weather takes some getting used to. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus.
0 upvotes
9 Replies
Rylee C.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 24, moved here 15 years ago from Baltimore. I've lived in Meadowbrook and West, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Nice parks and green spaces
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cost of living situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Meadowbrook: Great for couples. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- West: 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 Baltimore, everything felt pretty good. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is competitive. You can live comfortably on $70K-$100K 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
Lucas Price
Bought a house here in 2019 and there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. Property values have gone up a bit since then.
38 upvotes
Landon Morgan
I've lived in Highland for about 7 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I have mixed feelings honestly. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Decent public transit for the size
- The job market scene is pretty good
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Can feel isolated
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for families. Hope this helps!.
38 upvotes
native_sarah91
Came here for retirement and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The food scene is honestly challenging and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
24 upvotes
Skylar Flores
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I have mixed feelings honestly. Internet is excellent in most areas.
18 upvotes
Hunter Torres
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, the quality of life is solid. Feel free to reach out with questions..
10 upvotes
Wyatt Roberts
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's been a really good experience overall. Hope this helps!.
8 upvotes
Ella
I've lived in Westside for about 15 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it was the best decision I ever made. When I first moved here from Salt Lake City, I was surprised by job market. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Strong job market in several industries
- Four distinct seasons
- The healthcare scene is decent
The downsides:
- Can feel isolated
- Far from beaches/mountains
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for families. Feel free to reach out with questions..
1 upvotes
Zoe
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 12 years ago from Phoenix and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Lakewood. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in legal. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally excellent. It took about 7 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like Italian.
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