Not sure if this has been asked before, but Median household income is $104,808, which feels pretty solid for the area. Average temperature is around 50--F, so expect cold winters. Homes are going for about $376,800 on average. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The city has invested a lot in new development. Am I wrong here? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
11 upvotes
10 Replies
Emmett Gutierrez
Saving this thread
38 upvotes
Gabriel Lopez
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem challenging.
I've been here 15 years and it's been a really good experience overall. The thing nobody mentions is healthcare. It's reasonable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the job market is legit. And if you're into biking, this place is pretty good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Highland side vs the Old Town side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
sd_austin
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in West area are hit or miss. Kids love it here.
24 upvotes
Liam Price
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Highland for 6 years. Moved from Atlanta for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.
**Employment:**
marketing is strong here. manufacturing is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is decent - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Highland schools are hit or miss. 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. Not very walkable outside downtown. Limited entertainment options. And nightlife can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
21 upvotes
Aiden Chavez
this is the way
19 upvotes
Nolan P.
exactly what I was thinking
15 upvotes
raised_nathan38
The food scene here is tough. Tons of great Mediterranean places. I genuinely enjoy living here.
14 upvotes
Daniel K.
+1
6 upvotes
Adam Rodriguez
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value traffic, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely challenging and I've found it's exactly what I was looking for. My neighborhood (Midtown) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. community vibe is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
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.